Knee pain – common causes, symptoms and knee protection
The knee joint is one of the most stressed joints in the body and injuries can affect both the inside and outside of the knee. The pain can come on suddenly at the time of injury or develop gradually through overuse.
Common causes of knee pain
- Runner's knee (iliotibial band syndrome, ITB)
An overuse injury where the tendon on the outside of the thigh rubs against the femur. Causes pain on the outside of the knee during activity, especially when running. - Cruciate ligament injuries ( ACL and PCL injuries )
Usually occurs when twisting or a strong blow to the knee. Often causes a clear "pop", rapid swelling and a feeling of instability. - Meniscus injury
The meniscus acts as a shock absorber in the knee joint. Damage causes pain along the joint space, sometimes with swelling or locking. - Schlatter's knee (Morbus Schlatter)
An overuse injury that affects growing adolescents. Causes pain and tenderness just below the kneecap where the tendon attaches to the lower leg. - Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFSS)
Overload around the kneecap which can cause diffuse pain on the front or inside of the knee. - Osteoarthritis (medial or lateral)
Wear and tear in the cartilage of the knee joint leading to stiffness, pain and reduced mobility.
Symptoms
- Pain on the inside, outside, or front of the knee
- Stiffness or swelling in the knee joint
- Feelings of instability or locking
- Pain with exertion or rest
When should you seek medical attention?
Seek medical attention if the pain is severe, the knee feels unstable, swells, or if the symptoms do not go away despite relief and self-care.
Recommended protection & support
Stabilizing knee pads can provide support for meniscus and ligament injuries, while relieving pads provide relief for runner's knee or bursitis. In the case of osteoarthritis, special osteoarthritis pads help reduce the load and facilitate movement. For overpronation, insoles with pronation support can contribute to better step patterns and reduced stress on the knee joint. See all our knee and knee joint products here.
About our Injury Guide – quick guidance in case of complaints
In our Injury Guide, you will receive clear and easy-to-understand information about common injuries, how they occur and what symptoms usually occur. You will also receive recommendations on which protection and aids can relieve your discomfort and help you further in your rehabilitation. All information is based on expert knowledge from our licensed physiotherapist.
For more information about the knee, you can read more in the Injury Guide Knee. You can also go to the Injury Guide main page to read about other injuries and symptoms.
Related injuries:
Find the right protection for your needs
There are several ways to find the right product on our website. For a more personalized selection, you can use our filters and sort by injury, body part or sport. You can also get help from our AI assistant Eir, who is trained on all the content on our website and can help you with product recommendations, fit questions and order-related concerns – 24/7. If you would rather speak directly to our licensed physiotherapist, Ida, you can reach her via email or phone for personal advice and support in your product selection.
