Knee

Knee pain is a common problem in adolescence, adult and elderly life. It can be the result of an injury, over use, trauma or it can start without a known cause.

Common problems include:

• Anterior knee pain/Patellofemoral pain - This is associated with pain at the front of your knee (around your kneecap) and commonly worse after prolonged sitting or going up stairs
• Meniscal (cartilage) - Pain usually comes on after a twisting action with pain generally on either side of the knee e.g inside or outside
• Osteoarthritis - This is usually associated with patients over the age of 45 who have morning stiffness in the knee and pain with activity, particularly weight bearing activities
• Patella Tendinopathy - Usually associated with pain under the knee cap and worse after activity or as the day goes on
• Patella dislocations/Instability - This associated with the knee cap coming out of place and relocating. 
• Soft tissue injuries -This is normally associated with a trauma/sport related injury eg a tackle in football.

Often knee pain responds well to simple advice and self- management. Follow the links below for further information on how to manage these common problems. If your pain is severe or does not improve you may need to contact your GP practice/First contact practitioner.