Knee pain

Signs and symptoms of knee pain

Common signs and symptoms

Knee pain symptoms can vary depending on the cause, but there are several common signs that may include:

• Pain in or around the knee joint, which may be dull, sharp or aching
• Swelling or inflammation around the knee
• Stiffness, especially after rest or first thing in the morning
• Reduced movement or difficulty bending and straightening the knee
• Clicking, popping or grinding sensations in the joint
• Weakness or instability, where the knee may feel like it could “give way”
• Pain that worsens with activity such as walking, running or climbing stairs

Symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly after an injury. Some people find symptoms come and go, while others may notice that they gradually worsen over time.

When symptoms may worsen

Knee pain symptoms often vary and may become worse during certain activities or at particular times.

• During or after physical activity such as walking, running or climbing stairs
• After long periods of standing or sitting in one position
• After rest or inactivity, when stiffness may be more noticeable
• During cold or damp weather, which some people find increases discomfort
• Following overuse or when the knee has not had enough time to recover after injury

Persistent or worsening symptoms may sometimes suggest an underlying condition and should be assessed if they begin affecting daily activities.

Treatment options for knee pain

Lifestyle changes and self-care

Many people with knee pain can improve their symptoms with simple lifestyle changes and self-care at home. These are often recommended as the first step, particularly for mild to moderate knee pain. 

• Stay active: Gentle exercise such as walking, swimming or cycling can help keep the knee joint mobile and reduce stiffness.
• Strength and support: Strengthening the muscles around the knee can improve stability and reduce pressure on the joint.
• Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce strain on the knees and help ease symptoms over time.
• Cold or heat packs: Ice can help reduce swelling, while heat may ease stiffness and improve comfort.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relief may help manage short-term discomfort if suitable for you.

While these approaches can help manage symptoms, they may not always provide enough relief for ongoing or more severe knee pain, particularly when inflammation associated with osteoarthritis is involved.

Embolisation treatment (Genicular Artery Embolisation) 

For people with persistent knee pain, particularly linked to osteoarthritis, a minimally invasive treatment called genicular artery embolisation (GAE) may be considered. 

Embolisation treatment works by targeting the small blood vessels supplying inflamed areas of the knee joint. During the procedure, a specialist inserts a thin catheter, usually through the wrist or groin, and delivers tiny particles to reduce blood flow to these vessels. This can help reduce inflammation, ease pain and improve mobility over time. 

The procedure does not involve open surgery, and most patients are able to go home the same day. GAE is typically considered when symptoms have not improved with treatments such as physiotherapy, pain relief or lifestyle changes.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is often used to help manage knee pain by improving strength, movement and stability around the joint.

• Strengthening exercises: Build support around the knee to reduce strain on the joint
• Stretching: Helps improve flexibility and reduce stiffness
• Movement advice: Guidance on walking, stairs and daily activity to reduce pain triggers
• Practical support: Advice on posture, footwear and activity levels

Physiotherapy aims to reduce pain and improve long-term knee function.

Medications

If self-care and physiotherapy are not enough to control knee pain, your GP may recommend medication to help manage symptoms and improve comfort.

• Simple pain relief: Such as paracetamol to help reduce pain levels
• Anti-inflammatory medicines: NSAIDs may be used to help reduce pain and swelling in the joint
• Stronger pain relief: In some cases, short-term stronger painkillers may be prescribed for more severe symptoms 
• Topical treatments: Pain-relieving gels or creams applied directly to the knee can help ease local discomfort 

Medication is usually used alongside other treatments, rather than on its own, to help improve mobility and support recovery. 

Procedures

If knee pain is ongoing or not improving with self-care, physiotherapy or medication, further procedures may sometimes be considered depending on the underlying cause.

These may include:

• Genicular artery embolisation (GAE): A minimally invasive procedure that targets blood vessels contributing to inflammation in the knee to help reduce pain and improve mobility.
• Steroid injections: May be used to help reduce inflammation and provide temporary symptom relief.
• Joint injections: Certain injections may help improve lubrication within the joint and reduce discomfort in some patients.
• Knee replacement surgery: In more severe cases, surgery may be considered when symptoms significantly affect daily activities and other treatments have not provided enough relief.