Knee Pain: Meniscus, Arthritis and Inflammation

Knee pain may follow overuse, injury, ligament or meniscus problems, osteoarthritis or inflammatory disease. Its location and onset offer important clues.

Symptoms, causes and key details

Locking or giving way can suggest mechanical injury, while prolonged morning stiffness and swelling may indicate inflammation. MRI findings do not always explain symptoms.

Assessment and practical next steps

Note trauma, swelling and movement limitations. Adjusting activity and appropriate rehabilitation may help; avoid prolonged unsupervised painkillers.

When is urgent help needed?

Inability to bear weight, obvious deformity, a hot red joint with fever or sudden major swelling requires urgent assessment.

Frequently asked question

Does every painful knee need an MRI?

No, history, examination and sometimes X-ray may be sufficient initially.

This article provides general information, not a personal diagnosis or treatment.

Trusted information source: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/knee-pain/