Knee pain that lingers: Uncover causes, red flags, and when surgery becomes the answer

Photo caption: No more ignoring that nagging knee pain, know the signs, take the next step (Image: Canva)

Knee pain, the one that’s persistent, can impact how you walk, sleep, and live. While occasional aches are common, incessant pain demands attention. Ignoring it may lead to long-term complications, from joint damage to serious mobility issues.

The knee is one of the most used and most vulnerable joints in the body. "Knee pain may stem from overuse, sports injuries, or age-related wear and tear such as osteoarthritis," shares Dr Aashish Arbat, Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon at Jehangir Multispeciality Hospitals, Pune. “While young people often suffer due to high-impact activities or sports injuries, older adults may experience chronic discomfort due to cartilage breakdown. If left untreated, it can gradually limit range of motion, weaken muscles, and affect one’s posture.

Not all knee pain needs urgent care, but some signs should never be ignored.
Dr Arbat says, “If there’s persistent swelling, locking of the joint, or if the knee feels unstable or painful despite rest, it’s time to consult a specialist.” Clicking sounds, visible deformity, or pain that prevents weight-bearing may indicate internal damage like ligament tears or cartilage injury.

Overuse and injury are common culprits: Activities like running, squatting, or even climbing stairs repeatedly can lead to tendonitis or ligament strain. “A single injury, like a fall or twist, might also lead to serious damage if not managed well,” Dr Arbat.

Arthritis is more than just old age: While osteoarthritis is common in older adults, rheumatoid arthritis can affect younger individuals too. “It causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness, often in both knees, and requires early treatment to prevent joint deterioration,” he says.

Don’t ignore mechanical symptoms: Feeling like your knee is giving way? “Hearing frequent clicking or popping sounds? These are not just quirks, they’re often signs of underlying damage that could worsen without intervention,” Dr Arbat explains.

Non-surgical methods are the first line: Treatment often starts with physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and weight management. “Gentle, low-impact exercises like walking or swimming help build strength without putting pressure on the joint,” advises Dr Arbat.

When surgery becomes the smart choice: When conservative treatments fail, procedures like arthroscopy, ligament repair, or total knee replacement might be needed. “Minimally invasive total knee replacement is safe, reliable, and helps patients return to their daily routine with improved quality of life,” says Dr Arbat.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.