Maybe you twisted your knee hiking. Maybe it started hurting after pickleball or skiing. Or perhaps there wasn't a specific injury at all, it simply began bothering you one day.

In many cases, a few days of rest is exactly what's needed.

But certain symptoms suggest the problem may be more than a simple strain. When these warning signs are present, delaying an evaluation can sometimes allow the injury to become more difficult to treat.

Patients tell me, "My knee only really hurts when I go down the stairs."

At first, it doesn't seem like a big deal. Many people continue exercising, walking, or even playing sports without much trouble. But descending stairs places unique forces on the knee, and pain during this everyday activity can provide important clues about what's happening inside the joint.

Skiing is a thrilling way to embrace the winter months, but for those with knee instability or past injuries, it can also be a source of concern. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or hitting the slopes for the first time, knee braces can be a game-changer in boosting your confidence and protecting your knees.

“In fact, athletes in many sports that meet criteria for being loose jointed are more than four times more likely to tear their ACL than athletes that are not loose jointed,” states Dr. Sterett.

Dr. Sterett explains that, “Knee dislocations have the potential to cause arthritis, primarily due to the significant trauma and damage to the joint structures.” Knee dislocations occur when the bones of the knee joint are forced out of alignment, often as a result of high-impact accidents or sports injury.

Pain in your knee is not a condition, it’s a symptom of a deeper issue. Here are two common reasons you’re experiencing knee pain.

Generally, knee cartilage transplant candidates are younger, more active people experiencing knee pain caused by worn cartilage.

We all have occasional aches and pains, but pain below the kneecap usually indicates a larger problem.