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Knee Pain

Pain in or around the knee from injury, overuse, wear and tear or muscle imbalance.

What is Knee Pain?

Knee pain is common and can be caused by sprains and strains, overuse (for example from running), osteoarthritis or problems with the kneecap and the tendons around it.

Strengthening the muscles that support the knee, such as the thighs and hips, often helps reduce pain and improve how the knee works.

Common signs

  • Pain when walking, climbing stairs or kneeling
  • Swelling or stiffness in the knee
  • Clicking, locking or the knee giving way
  • Pain around or behind the kneecap
  • Pain after running or sport

How can therapists help?

Physiotherapists can assess the cause and prescribe strengthening and mobility exercises. Sports and soft tissue therapists can release tight muscles around the knee and hips, and Pilates can help with strength and alignment.

Physiotherapists Sports massage Osteopaths Injury rehabilitation Pilates
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This page is for general information only and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for medical advice. If your pain is severe, came on after a serious injury, is getting worse, or comes with symptoms such as numbness, weakness, fever or loss of bladder or bowel control, speak to your GP or call NHS 111 — or 999 in an emergency.

Other physical conditions

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