When to See a Doctor for Knee Pain

Knee pain is a common problem for many people and can range from mild soreness to sharp, severe discomfort. It may start suddenly after an injury or gradually get worse over time, making daily activities and sleep difficult.

Some people notice swelling, redness, or warmth. If you see a visible deformity, have trouble putting weight on your knee, or hear a sudden “popping” sound, seek immediate medical attention at urgent care or the emergency room.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain may come from injuries, wear and tear, or underlying health conditions. Some common causes include:

Ligament injuries such as a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), which often happens during sports.
Meniscus tears, which occur when the cartilage that cushions your knee is damaged, often during twisting motions.
Tendonitis, or inflammation of the tendons, usually from overuse.
Bursitis, when the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) near the joint become inflamed.
Osteoarthritis, a condition that causes cartilage to wear down with age.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome, often described as pain behind or around the kneecap, common in runners and teenagers.

Some people also experience referred knee pain from issues in the hip, back, or feet.

Signs You Should See a Doctor

Some signs should not be ignored. Make an appointment with a healthcare provider if you notice any of the following:

Knee pain that lasts more than a few days without improvement.
Pain that keeps returning or worsens with activity.
Pain that interferes with walking, climbing stairs, or getting out of a chair.
Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee.
Swelling that doesn’t improve with rest and ice.
A locking or unstable feeling in the knee joint.

These symptoms could signal problems like a torn ligament, cartilage damage, or joint inflammation that needs professional evaluation.

When to Go to Urgent Care or the Emergency Room

Some types of knee pain require immediate medical attention. Seek emergency care if:

You experience a sudden, intense pain and cannot move or bear weight on your knee.
You hear a “pop” or snapping sound during an injury.
The knee looks visibly deformed or out of place.
You have swelling that develops very quickly.
You develop a fever along with knee pain and swelling (could suggest infection).
There’s significant redness or warmth around the joint, especially after a recent surgery or injection.

Prompt attention can reduce complications and may prevent permanent damage.

Home Remedies for Knee Pain

If your knee pain is mild or caused by a minor injury, home remedies can often provide relief. Many people find that a mix of rest and gentle movement helps reduce discomfort and promote healing. Here are some effective self-care options:

Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (R.I.C.E.). Rest your knee, apply ice packs several times a day for 15–20 minutes, wrap it with a compression bandage, and elevate your leg to reduce swelling.
Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. Try low-impact movement such as walking, swimming, or cycling to keep the joint flexible. Always consult your doctor or physical therapist before starting a new routine.
Use supportive shoes. Footwear with good arch support can reduce strain on the knees.
Avoid high-impact activities. Skip running or jumping if your knee is painful. These motions can aggravate the joint.
Try over-the-counter pain relievers. Non-prescription medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may ease discomfort. Use only as directed and consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Apply warm compresses. After the first few days, switching to heat therapy can help relax tight muscles or joints.
Use a knee brace or support. If needed, these tools help stabilize your knee during movement.
Try weight management. Reducing extra body weight can relieve pressure on the knee joint over time.

These remedies often improve mild cases, but persistent symptoms need medical follow-up.

Preventing Knee Pain

While not all knee problems are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

Warm up before physical activity and stretch after workouts.
Avoid sudden increases in exercise intensity.
Wear appropriate footwear for your sport or daily activities.
Strengthen leg muscles, especially those that support the knee.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Use proper form when lifting or doing repetitive motions.

If you’ve had a previous injury, talk with a provider about ways to prevent flare-ups or re-injury.