When Should I See a Doctor for Knee Pain?

Knee pain is one of the most common reasons people delay seeing a doctor. Many assume it’s just soreness, aging, or something that will go away on its own. While that’s sometimes true, knee pain can also be a sign of an underlying condition that benefits from early evaluation and treatment.

Knowing when to wait and when to see a doctor can help prevent long-term damage and get you back to normal activity sooner.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain can come from many sources, including:

• Overuse or strain

• Arthritis

• Meniscus tears

• Ligament injuries (ACL, MCL)

• Cartilage damage

• Tendinitis or bursitis

• Instability or mechanical issues

Some causes improve with rest and time, while others require medical care to prevent worsening symptoms.

When Knee Pain Can Be Managed at Home

You may be able to monitor knee pain at home if:

• The pain is mild and improving

• There is no swelling or instability

• You can walk without difficulty

• The pain began after minor activity or overuse

• Symptoms improve with rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication

If symptoms steadily improve over one to two weeks, medical treatment may not be necessary.

Signs You Should See a Doctor for Knee Pain

You should schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist if you experience any of the following:

Persistent Pain

If knee pain lasts more than two weeks or continues to return, it may indicate a structural issue that won’t resolve on its own.

Swelling or Stiffness

Ongoing swelling, tightness, or difficulty bending or straightening the knee can be signs of inflammation, cartilage damage, or arthritis.

Instability or “Giving Way”

If your knee feels unstable, buckles, or feels like it might give out, this can point to ligament or meniscus injury.

Locking, Catching, or Clicking

Mechanical symptoms — such as catching, popping, or locking — often suggest a cartilage or meniscal problem that should be evaluated.

Pain After Injury

Any knee pain following a fall, sports injury, or sudden twist should be examined, especially if symptoms worsen instead of improve.

Difficulty Walking or Bearing Weight

If knee pain affects your ability to walk, climb stairs, or perform daily activities, medical evaluation is recommended.

When to Seek Immediate Care

Seek prompt medical attention if:

• You cannot bear weight on the knee

• There is severe swelling or deformity

• Pain is severe and sudden

• The knee feels unstable after an injury

• There are signs of infection such as redness, warmth, or fever

What an Orthopedic Evaluation Involves

When you see an orthopedic specialist for knee pain, the goal is to identify the cause and create a treatment plan that fits your needs. This may include:

• A physical exam

• X-rays or advanced imaging if needed

• Discussion of activity level, symptoms, and goals

• Conservative treatment options such as physical therapy or injections

• Surgical options only when appropriate

Many knee conditions can be treated without surgery when addressed early.

Don’t Ignore Ongoing Knee Pain

Ignoring knee pain can allow small problems to become larger ones. Early evaluation often leads to simpler treatments, quicker recovery, and better long-term outcomes.

If knee pain is limiting your activity, affecting your quality of life, or simply not improving, it’s time to have it checked.

Schedule an Evaluation

If you’re experiencing ongoing knee pain or instability, an orthopedic evaluation can help determine the cause and guide the right treatment path — so you can move comfortably and confidently again.