Knee pain when bending can be caused by several conditions affecting the ligaments, tendons, cartilage, or bones around the knee joint. Common causes include:
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome, which causes pain in front of the knee.
- Patellar tendonitis, causing burning or sharp pain around the kneecap.
- Meniscus tears causing pain, swelling, and difficulty bending.
- Osteoarthritis, which leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling often worsening with movement.
- Knee bursitis causing swelling and pain over or below the knee.
- Injuries like torn ligaments or fractures can cause sharp pain on bending.
- Baker’s cyst behind the knee causing tightness and pain on bending.
The location and type of pain can help identify the cause:
- Pain behind the knee may be from a Baker’s cyst, meniscus tear, or hamstring tendonitis.
- Sharp pain in the front can be from patellar tendonitis or a fracture.
- Pain above the kneecap might indicate quadriceps tendonitis or bursitis.
- Dull ache in front of the knee is often patellofemoral syndrome.
If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by swelling and inability to move the knee properly, medical evaluation is recommended for diagnosis and treatment. Conservative treatments include rest, ice, compression, elevation, physical therapy, and sometimes medication or injections depending on cause. Avoiding high-impact activities and maintaining muscle strength and flexibility can help prevent knee pain.
