Overview
Knee pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages. Knee pain may be the result of an injury, such as a ruptured ligament or torn cartilage. Medical conditions — including arthritis, gout and infections — also can cause knee pain.
Many types of minor knee pain respond well to self-care measures like ice packs, hot water formentation, local application of analgesics and oral analgesic medications, physical therapy and knee braces also can help relieve knee pain.
Symptoms
The location and severity of knee pain may vary, depending on the cause of the problem. Signs and symptoms that sometimes accompany knee pain include:
Swelling and stiffness
Redness and warmth to the touch
Weakness or instability
Popping or crunching noises
Inability to fully straighten the knee
When to see a doctor?
Can't bear weight on your knee
Have marked knee swelling
Are unable to fully straighten or bend your knee
See an obvious deformity in your leg or knee
Have a fever, in addition to redness, pain and swelling in your knee
Feel as if your knee is unstable or your knee "gives out"