Knee Pain When Climbing Stairs

Many people notice knee pain first on the stairs. Going up or down loads the knee with much more force than walking on flat ground, so even a small problem inside the joint can show up as pain.

Common reasons knees hurt on stairs

• Wear of the joint cartilage (osteoarthritis). Pain on stairs is often one of the first signs. It may come with stiffness after sitting and a grinding feeling.
• Pain around the kneecap. The kneecap presses against the thigh bone more on stairs, so irritation behind it can hurt on the way up or down.
• Meniscus injury. The meniscus is the cushion inside the knee. A tear can cause pain, catching or a feeling that the knee gives way.
• Ligament problems. An old or recent ligament injury can make the knee feel unstable on steps.
• Tendon irritation and weak muscles. Weak thigh and hip muscles make the knee work harder.

What you can try at home first

• Rest from activities that clearly bring on the pain, and use the handrail on stairs.
• Use ice or a warm pack for comfort, whichever feels better.
• Wear supportive footwear and avoid sitting on the floor for long.
• If you are overweight, gradual weight loss reduces the load on the knee.
• Gentle strengthening for the thigh muscles can help, ideally after advice from a doctor or physiotherapist.

When to see an orthopaedic doctor

Please get your knee checked if you notice:

• pain that lasts more than a few weeks or keeps getting worse
• swelling, warmth or redness around the knee
• the knee locking, catching or giving way
• pain at night or at rest
• trouble walking or a visible change in the shape of the knee
• pain after a fall or twisting injury

A proper examination, and an X-ray or scan when needed, helps find the real cause. Many knee problems are treated without surgery. Surgery is discussed only when other treatment has not helped enough and the joint is badly affected.

Consult Dr. Ankkur Kumar in Pimple Saudagar, Pune

Dr. Ankkur Kumar is an orthopaedic surgeon who sees patients with knee, hip and joint problems. You can read more about knee pain treatment and knee replacement surgery in Pune, or visit the orthopaedic doctor in Pimple Saudagar page.

This article is general information and is not a substitute for a medical examination.