Knee pain when bending can be caused by a variety of conditions affecting the bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, or cartilage in and around the knee joint. Common causes include:
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (pain in front of the kneecap)
- Patellar tendonitis (burning or sharp pain at the base of the kneecap)
- Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome (burning pain outside the knee spreading to hip or thigh)
- Hamstring tendonitis (pain behind the knee and thigh)
- Quadriceps tendonitis (pain above or in front of the knee)
- Knee bursitis (swelling, warmth, and pain over or below the knee)
- Osteoarthritis (diffuse pain, swelling, and stiffness, often worsening with bending)
- Meniscus tears or ligament injuries (sharp pain or instability)
- Baker’s cyst (tightness and swelling behind the knee)
The location and nature of the pain can help pinpoint the cause:
- Pain behind the knee may suggest hamstring tendonitis, Baker’s cyst, ACL or PCL injury, or meniscus tear.
- Sharp pain when bending may indicate torn ligament or meniscus, fracture, osteoarthritis, or patellar tendonitis.
- Pain above the kneecap can be due to quadriceps tendonitis, osteoarthritis, or bursitis.
- Pain in front of the kneecap often relates to patellofemoral pain syndrome, patellar tendonitis, or bursitis.
Additional factors like overuse, physical activity, injury, obesity, or misalignment can contribute to knee pain when bending. Treatment depends on the cause and can include rest, ice, physical therapy, strengthening exercises, or medical interventions if necessary. If you experience persistent or severe pain, seeing a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment is advised.
