Short answer
Most knee pain from strains improves with rest, ice and simple painkillers within a few weeks. Osteoarthritis, common after 45, causes pain and stiffness that gets worse with use; regular exercise, weight loss and physiotherapy help most people, and surgery is needed only in a small number. See a doctor urgently if the knee is very swollen, hot and red with fever, locks or gives way, or you cannot bear weight.
- Published
- Published by
- Dhruva Hospitals, Kadapa
Common causes
| Symptoms | Possible cause |
|---|---|
| Pain after twisting, overstretching or overuse | Sprain or strain |
| Knee gives way, cannot straighten, popping at the time of injury | Ligament, meniscus or cartilage injury |
| Pain and stiffness in both knees, mild swelling, in older adults | Osteoarthritis |
| Warm, red swelling, worse when kneeling | Bursitis |
| Hot, red and very painful attacks | Gout or joint infection |
Home care for a recent strain
- Rest the knee and avoid standing for long periods.
- Use an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours.
- Use simple painkillers such as paracetamol, or an anti-inflammatory gel, if suitable for you.
- See a doctor if the pain does not improve within a few weeks.
Osteoarthritis of the knee
In osteoarthritis the protective cartilage in the joint wears down. It is more common with age, in women, after injuries and in people who are overweight. Pain usually gets worse with use, and morning stiffness lasts less than 30 minutes.
It cannot be cured, but it does not always get worse, and symptoms can improve. Treatment includes regular exercise, strengthening exercises with a physiotherapist, weight loss, suitable footwear and painkillers. Surgery, including knee replacement, is considered only when these have not helped and the damage is severe.
See a doctor urgently if
- The knee is very painful, badly swollen or has changed shape
- You cannot move the knee or put weight on it
- It locks or gives way
- It is hot and red and you have a fever, which can mean infection
At Dhruva Hospitals
Senior orthopaedic surgeon Dr. B Someshwar Reddy (MBBS, MS Ortho) treats knee and joint pain, arthritis and injuries, with digital X-ray in the hospital and a 24/7 emergency team for injuries. Bring any X-rays or scan reports you already have. Call +91 99599 59694 to book.
Common questions
Should I avoid walking if I have knee arthritis?
No. Regular activity such as walking, within your comfort, and strengthening exercises usually help arthritis. Ask a physiotherapist for a plan that suits you.
Do I need an MRI for knee pain?
Not always. Osteoarthritis is usually diagnosed from your symptoms and an examination, sometimes with an X-ray. An MRI is used for some injuries, such as suspected ligament or meniscus tears.
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This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. In an emergency, call +91 90368 52311.