7 Common Causes of Knee Pain and When to See an Orthopedic Doctor
- Dr. Abhishek Kumar Sambharia
- Mar 8
- 3 min read

Knee pain is one of the most common problems affecting people of all ages. Whether it is due to an injury, aging joints, or lifestyle factors, knee pain can significantly affect daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or exercising.
While mild knee discomfort may improve with rest, persistent pain should not be ignored. Understanding the possible causes of knee pain can help you seek the right treatment at the right time.
At Cure & Flex Orthocare, Dwarka, New Delhi, we frequently see patients with knee pain caused by a variety of conditions.
Below are some of the most common causes.
1. Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of knee pain in people above 40 years of age. It occurs when the protective cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears away.
Common symptoms
Pain while walking or climbing stairs
Morning stiffness in the knee
Swelling around the joint
Reduced movement of the knee
Early treatment can help slow the progression of arthritis and improve mobility.
2. Ligament Injuries
Ligaments are strong tissues that stabilize the knee joint. Injuries to these ligaments often occur during sports or sudden twisting movements.
Common ligament injuries include:
ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) injury
PCL injury
MCL injury
Symptoms may include swelling, instability of the knee, and difficulty walking.
3. Meniscus Tear
The meniscus is a shock-absorbing cartilage present inside the knee joint. It can tear due to sudden twisting of the knee or degeneration with age.
Symptoms
Knee pain while bending or twisting
Locking sensation in the knee
Swelling and stiffness
Meniscus injuries are commonly seen in athletes as well as older adults.
4. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
This condition causes pain in the front of the knee around the kneecap (patella).
It is common in:
Young adults
Runners
People who sit for long hours
Individuals with weak thigh muscles
Patients often experience pain while climbing stairs or getting up from a chair.
5. Tendinitis
Tendinitis occurs due to inflammation of the tendons around the knee.
It is commonly seen in:
Athletes
Runners
Individuals who suddenly increase physical activity
Symptoms usually include pain during movement and tenderness around the knee joint.
6. Bursitis
Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between tissues in the knee. When these sacs become inflamed, the condition is called bursitis.
Symptoms may include:
Swelling
Warmth around the knee
Pain during movement
7. Fractures Around the Knee
Fractures involving the kneecap (patella), femur, or tibia can cause severe knee pain and difficulty bearing weight.
These injuries usually occur due to:
Falls
Road traffic accidents
Direct trauma to the knee
Immediate medical attention is necessary in such cases.
When Should You See an Orthopedic Doctor?
You should consult an orthopedic specialist if you experience:
Knee pain lasting more than a few days
Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
Swelling in the knee joint
Knee instability or locking
Pain after an injury
Early diagnosis can prevent complications and help restore normal joint function.
Treatment Options for Knee Pain
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the pain. Common treatment options include:
Medication for pain and inflammation
Physiotherapy and strengthening exercises
Lifestyle modifications
Knee braces or supports
In some cases, surgical treatment
A proper evaluation by an orthopedic specialist is essential to determine the best treatment plan.
Expert Knee Pain Treatment in Dwarka
If you are experiencing persistent knee pain, it is important to seek professional medical advice.
Dr. Abhishek Kumar Sambharia at Cure & Flex Orthocare, Dwarka, New Delhi, provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for knee pain, sports injuries, arthritis, and fractures.
Early treatment can help you regain mobility and return to an active, pain-free life.
📍 Cure & Flex Orthocare 242, Sunview Apartment, DDA Pocket 4 Sector 11, Dwarka, New Delhi
📞 Call for Appointment: 8448445505

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