Pain at the front of the knee, around or behind the kneecap, is one of the most common knee complaints Mr Kosuge sees. It affects people of all ages, from active teenagers to older adults and it has many possible causes. The good news is that most cases settle without surgery. This article explains what tends to cause it and when it is worth having assessed.
How front-of-knee pain usually feels
Anterior knee pain, to give it its medical name, is typically felt around the kneecap. It often worsens going down stairs, kneeling, squatting, or standing up after sitting for a long time. That last one, pain after sitting still, is common enough that it has a nickname among clinicians. The pain is often described as an ache rather than a sharp pain. It may be accompanied by a grinding or clicking sensation.
The common causes
There are several. In younger and active people it is often related to the way the kneecap moves in its groove, or to overuse, for example after a change in training. Tendon problems around the kneecap are another cause. In older adults it is frequently due to wear in the joint between the kneecap and the thigh bone, which is a form of osteoarthritis. Less commonly it can be linked to a cartilage or alignment problem. The cause matters, because the treatment follows from it.
What usually helps
Most front-of-knee pain improves with non-surgical measures. Activity adjustment, targeted physiotherapy to balance the muscles around the knee, sensible pain relief and, where appropriate, weight management form the foundation. Physiotherapy is particularly valuable here, because strengthening the right muscles often addresses the underlying cause rather than just the symptom.
When to see a specialist
It is worth seeking an opinion if the pain is persistent, if it is stopping you doing the things you want to do, if the knee locks or gives way, or if it has not improved after a reasonable period of physiotherapy and self-care. An assessment identifies the cause, which is the key to treating it properly. Surgery is only rarely needed for anterior knee pain, but knowing what you are dealing with brings peace of mind and a clear plan.
Getting it assessed
Mr Kosuge will examine the knee, review any imaging and explain what is causing the pain and how best to manage it. To arrange a consultation or follow-up at The Rivers Hospital, High Wych Road, Sawbridgeworth CM21 0HH:
Telephone: 01279 602675