Let’s be honest: we don’t really think about our knees until they start hurting. That dull ache after a long walk, that annoying stiffness in the morning or the sudden sharp pain when climbing stairs all seem to show up out of nowhere. But the truth is, your knees are speaking to you long before the pain gets loud. As an orthopedic surgeon, I meet people across all age groups: teenagers recovering from sports injuries, office-goers with desk-job stiffness and seniors dealing with wear and tear.
What do they all have in common?
Knee problems that could have been treated early had they not been ignored. So here’s a plainspoken breakdown of the seven most common knee issues that deserve your attention. Let’s walk through them, what they are, how to recognise them and what can be done about them. This is the slow wearing-out of your knee joint. Most people over 50 start feeling its effects but it can creep in earlier too, especially if you’ve had past injuries or extra stress on your joints. What it feels like: A constant dull ache. Your knees may feel stiff in the morning or after sitting for a while. Swelling is common. How it’s diagnosed: A physical exam and X-rays. Sometimes an MRI if we need to see cartilage changes. Treatment: Weight management, physiotherapy - joint-friendly exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, knee supports and in severe cases, injections or even knee replacement. Injections may include PRP ( Platelet rich plasma) or hyaluronic acid to improve lubrication or sometimes both depending upon the condition of the knee. In advanced cases where daily life is affected and non surgical treatments have not helped then, total knee replacement may be suggested. This involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one to restore movement and reduce pain. 2. Ligament Injuries (like ACL or MCL tears) Popularly associated with athletes but you don’t have to be on a football field to tear a ligament. A sudden twist, fall or awkward step is enough. What it feels like: A pop at the time of injury followed by pain, swelling and a knee that feels unstable. How it’s diagnosed: Clinical tests confirmed with an MRI. Treatment: Rest, bracing, physiotherapy. Surgery if the tear is major or you need full knee function back (e.g. sports). 3. Meniscus Tears This is the shock-absorber in your knee. It’s a piece of cartilage and yes, it can tear when you squat or twist sharply. What it feels like: Pain along the knee joint, swelling, stiffness and sometimes the knee “locks” or gets stuck mid-movement. How it’s diagnosed: Examination plus MRI. Treatment: Depends on the size of the tear. Some heal with rest and therapy, others may need arthroscopic surgery. 4. Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper’s Knee) Jump a lot? Run frequently? This might sound familiar. It’s an overuse injury of the tendon connecting your kneecap to the shinbone. What it feels like: Pain just below the kneecap especially during or after exercise. It starts as a mild twinge and gets worse if ignored. How it’s diagnosed: Clinical evaluation, maybe an ultrasound or MRI. Treatment: Rest, stretching, physiotherapy and sometimes advanced treatments like PRP injections. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) uses components from your own blood to promote natural healing of tissues. 5. Bursitis Bursae are little fluid sacs that cushion your joints. When they get inflamed, thanks to pressure, overuse or even infection you feel it. What it feels like: Swelling and warmth over the knee, sometimes with sharp pain when you bend it or kneel. How it’s diagnosed: Exam, occasionally fluid testing or imaging. Treatment: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory meds. Sometimes fluid may be drawn out or a steroid injection given. 6. Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome) This isn’t just for runners. It’s a broad term for pain around the kneecap caused by poor alignment, weak muscles or overuse. What it feels like: A dull ache behind or around the kneecap. Sitting for long periods, climbing stairs or squatting makes it worse. How it’s diagnosed: Physical exam and imaging if needed. Treatment: Strengthening exercises, better footwear and modifying how you move. Surgery is rare. 7. Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) This overuse injury affects the thick band of tissue (the iliotibial band) that runs from your hip down to your shin. When it becomes tight or inflamed, it rubs against the outer part of the knee joint, causing pain. What it feels like: Sharp or burning pain on the outside of the knee, especially during repetitive activities like running or cycling. It often starts after a set distance or time and gets worse with continued activity. How it’s diagnosed: Based on your activity history and physical exam. Imaging may be used to rule out other causes. Treatment: Rest, stretching the IT band, foam rolling, strengthening hip and glute muscles, physiotherapy. Proper footwear and changes in training routines help prevent recurrence. Closing Note If knee pain is affecting your routine or limiting what you enjoy, don’t wait for it to get worse. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes. For a thorough, personalised evaluation, consult Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal, Chennai’s trusted orthopedic surgeon, at Mahi Clinic. With clear guidance, modern diagnostic tools, and patient-focused care, you’ll know exactly what’s going on and how to manage it confidently. 📍 Mahi Clinic, Kilpauk & Sowcarpet, Chennai1. Osteoarthritis
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