Knee pain: causes, symptoms and treatment
A clinically reviewed guide to knee pain — the common causes, warning signs and how it is managed.
Medically reviewed by D.C Matt · Lead Director
Last reviewed 1 July 2026
- The knee is a weight-bearing joint, so it is prone to overuse and wear.
- Patellofemoral pain (around the kneecap) is one of the most common types.
- Strengthening the surrounding muscles is central to most recovery.
What causes knee pain?
Knee pain is most often caused by overuse, kneecap (patellofemoral) problems, tendon issues or osteoarthritis.
- Patellofemoral pain around or behind the kneecap
- Patellar or quadriceps tendinopathy
- Osteoarthritis and age-related wear
- Ligament or meniscus injury, often from sport
What are the symptoms of knee pain?
Common symptoms are pain with stairs, squatting or kneeling, swelling, and sometimes catching or giving way.
- Pain around or behind the kneecap
- Pain with stairs, squatting or prolonged sitting
- Swelling or stiffness
- A sense of the knee catching, locking or giving way
How is knee pain treated?
Most knee pain is treated with targeted strengthening, load management and manual therapy, tailored to the specific cause.
Building strength in the thigh and hip muscles is central to most knee recovery. Shockwave therapy may be used for certain tendon problems, and referral is considered for suspected ligament or meniscus tears.
The Postura approach
At Postura Wellness, care for knee pain is built around OrthoRestore™ — our signature method that combines chiropractic and physiotherapy into one coordinated plan. Depending on your assessment, it can bring together chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, muscle manipulation, Active Release Technique, and targeted exercises, supported where helpful by technology such as shockwave therapy and bioelectric therapy. The aim is to relieve symptoms while addressing the underlying causes, with a plan tailored to you.
When to seek urgent care
Seek prompt care for a knee that is hot, red and swollen, cannot bear weight after an injury, locks in place, or gives way repeatedly.
Sciatica FAQs
Why does my knee hurt going down stairs?
Descending stairs loads the kneecap heavily, so pain in this situation often points to patellofemoral (kneecap) problems.
Should I exercise with knee pain?
Usually yes, with the right exercises. Guided strengthening typically helps knee pain, while complete rest can weaken supporting muscles.
Can physiotherapy help knee pain without surgery?
Yes. Most knee pain, including many cases of osteoarthritis, responds well to a structured exercise and manual therapy programme.
When should I see someone about knee pain?
See a clinician if pain is severe, follows an injury, comes with swelling or locking, or does not improve over a few weeks.
This guide is informed by patient information from accredited medical institutions:
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