When to See a Doctor for Knee Pain

Knee pain affects many Americans, regardless of age. Younger individuals often experience knee pain from injuries. However, knee pain can also stem from various medical conditions, including arthritis and obesity. It’s crucial to understand when to see a doctor for knee pain. If pain persists, worsens, or impacts daily activities, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you’re dealing with acute or chronic knee pain, it’s crucial to consult a knee specialist. A specialist can accurately diagnose your condition. What’s more, they can recommend effective treatment options. Prompt attention to knee pain often leads to better outcomes. Therefore, seeking expert care should be your next step.

What is a knee specialist called?

First and foremost, you need to know what type of doctor to see for you knee pain. If you were to go to your general practitioner about your knee pain, he or she would most likely refer you to an orthopedic doctor.

knee-specialist

The University of Utah explains in general terms that, “Orthopedic doctors (sometimes also called orthopaedic doctors or orthopaedic surgeons) are doctors who focus on caring for your bones, joints, ligament, nerves, and tendons (the tissue that connects bones and joints).” As such, a knee pain specialist is called an orthopedic knee specialist.

Keep in mind that many orthopedic doctors specialize in just one or two parts of the musculoskeletal system, so it is important to verify with any new doctor that he or she specializes in knees before making an appointment.  

When to See a Knee Specialist

Immediately after suffering a knee injury, you may experience some common symptoms in addition to knee pain. These signs and symptoms include:

knee-specialist-knee-injury
  • Popping noise and/or feeling
  • Crunching noises
  • Swelling, redness and warmth to the touch
  • Stiffness and/or inability to fully straighten the knee
  • Weakness and/or instability

When to See a Knee Doctor

Not all knee pain requires medical treatment – most minor tweaks, sprains and injuries can be treated at home with rest, ice and elevation. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should contact an orthopedic knee specialist for a consultation.

If you:

  • Have distinct knee swelling or an obvious deformity
  • Can’t bear weight on your knee
  • Your knee “gives out” when you try to walk
  • Have a fever in addition to redness and swelling
  • Are in severe pain

Chronic Knee Pain

Living in constant pain and being unable to live a normal, active life shouldn’t be your norm.

If you’ve been experiencing chronic knee pain, it’s time to see a knee pain specialist. While some chronic knee conditions cannot be cured, treatments can help reduce your symptoms and pain.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

knee-anatomy

Knee and joint pain can be caused by a host of acute injuries, medical conditions and chronic diseases.

Common Knee Injuries

  • ACL and MCL tears: These ligament tears are two of the most common knee injuries in active adults.
  • Knee fractures: Typically caused by a trauma, fractures of the patella, femur and tibia within the knee joint are extremely painful.
  • Knee dislocations: Typically caused by a trauma, knee dislocations can also be caused by knee abnormalities.
  • Meniscal tears: Most often caused during sports, these tears can also result from arthritis or aging.

Arthritis in the Knee

  • Osteoarthritis: The most common type of arthritis, this “wear and tear” condition is usually caused by joint deterioration and aging.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: A chronic autoimmune condition, RA can affect any bone in the body and is the most debilitating form of arthritis.
  • Septic arthritis: While rare, the knee joint can become infected, during which septic arthritis can quickly cause significant damage.

Other Knee Issues

  • Patellofemoral pain syndrome: Often called “runner’s knee” or “jumper’s knee,” this syndrome can cause pain and stiffness in the front of the knee and around the kneecap, making it difficult to climb stairs or kneel.
  • Pes anserine (knee tendon) bursitis: An inflammation of the bursae (cushion) between the tibia and the hamstring’s three tendons that causes pain on the inside of your knee, below the joint.

If you’re experiencing knee or joint pain and would like to talk to an orthopedic knee specialist, please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have or to set up a consultation.

63 Comments


Well i have a constant popping in knee while sitting down but without pain. I started doing little exercise(just laying down and stretching not heavy exercises) doing suddenly by knee started paining. Now i can’t walk properly. What to do?

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    Kamal, If you are unable to walk properly and are still experiencing pain, I would recommend seeing an Orthopedic knee specialist.

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Hello, friends, I am 20 years old and I had knee pain since I was 16 years old. For a while, when I was 17 years old, I felt a lot of pain in my knee area, so I went to the doctor and was under the doctor’s supervision for a few months and I was taking medicine. But I didn’t continue and I got better than before, but after a year my knee pain started again and it still continues. My knees make a creaking sound in a normal state and sometimes I feel very severe pain in the knee area and I can’t even move. It is very difficult for me to go up and down stairs and heights. Recently, when I get into a car and the driver brakes, my knees hurt…

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Hi my daughter dislocated her knee about 4 years ago, a week ago her knee locked when we were travelling on a plane and she has been having a locking feeling ever since. She is a dancer
What do you suggest ?

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    Debbie, if she is still experiencing locking, or other issues with the knee, I would suggest going to see an orthopedic knee specialist. It is always better to have it officially and thoroughly checked. The doctor can give your daughter options for treatment, prevention, etc.

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I had shingles over a yr ago..one day I was fine..next day I couldn’t walk..severe pain in knee and hip…then I broke out in shingles…now..a yr later..I have tightness on side of knee and nerve damage…..I have gotten several injections in knee…X-rays show arthritis……should I continue with visiting my doctor every 4 months or see a specialist

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    Hi Linda,
    Sorry to hear about your knee and hip! I would definitely recommend getting into a specialist for more precise and effective treatment, especially since you have already tried treatment with a non-specialist and the treatment hasn’t helped you reach your recovery goals. Dr. Daniel Gibbs is one of our orthopedic specialist that I believe would be a great fit for you as he specializes in both the hip and knee. To get on his schedule simply give us a call at (435)615-8822 and we will get you an appointment with him ASAP.

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I went snow boarding about two months ago and my knee hasn’t been right since. I can walk fine, but I can’t run, jog, jump, use my leg for workouts or even go up the stairs without it hurting. I’ve had occasional pain for about 10 years now. (Will be 25 next week) but I’ve been trying to support it with a knee brace for about three weeks now and its getting worse. I don’t know what I should do. The only part of my knee that’s in pain is the center on top.

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    Hi Kirsten,
    If you haven’t already tried the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation) for two weeks you could try that. However, if you have already tried a brace for three weeks and the pain has worsened, you should get in to see a doctor. An Orthopedic Specialist or Sports Medicine doctor would be best for this type of issue. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible will ensure you do not cause further damage and are given the best treatment so you can recovery as quickly and successfully as possible. Hope this helps! Best of luck with your knee.

    Reply

Nice blog & useful content. Thank you for sharing these blog information about Orthopedic Problems like knee pain & other issues etc.

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    Hi Ravikiran,
    Thank you for the kind comment! We’re glad you’ve enjoyed our blog and found it’s information helpful.

    Reply

    Thanks for the kind comment. We’re glad you found it helpful!

    Reply

Recently I have notice on both of my knees have a putty good amount of puffines, occasionally it hurts and when touching my cloths feels uncomfortable any ideas what could be ? I haven’t seen the specialty jet

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    Hello,
    Sorry to hear about your knee! Swelling could be cause by a plethora of different knee issues or injuries. I would recommend ice and rest for two weeks. Ice 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. If the swelling does not go down, you should see either your primary care doctor or one of our talented knee specialists. If you do end up needing to see one of our knee specialists, you can get scheduled with them by calling (435)615-8822.

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Hi I hurt my knee running 6 weeks ago.inside of my knee hurts to walk.no swelling redness or tenderness to touch. Does not hurt to ride bike 10 miles.feels like a stretch or pinch when walking

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    Hi Leslie,
    Sorry to hear about you knee. If you are having any mechanical symptoms within your knee such as catching or locking, or feelings of instability or giving way, and you feel as though it is limiting you, then I would recommend you see an orthopedic surgeon for evaluation and an exam of your knee. We have two excellent orthopedic specialists who would happy to see you! Give us a call at (435)615-8822.

    Reply

Hi,

Thanks for sharing this information on Common Knee Injuries

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I have arthritis in both my knees I’ve been told I’m almost bone on bone. I am already had one full knee replacement. I am not having the same pain that I did other me that I had done. I am having pain on me outside about 1 to 2 inches down from my knee it’s almost like a muscle or a Vein pain. I’ve seen an Othopedic doctor and they only take X-ray. I would like to have a mri to make sure that there is nothing more going on. But the doctor porter one. What are your thoughts?

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    Hello Sharon, thanks for the comment! I’m happy to help you with your concern. If the doctor you previously saw will not order an MRI and you are wanting to get one I would suggest trying one of two things: 1) Go to a knee specialist and ask that they order an MRI for you. We have several knee specialists at our office that would be happy to do this for you and can be reached at (435)615-8822. 2) Schedule a self pay MRI through TaylorMed. No doctor order is required and they have very affordable pricing! Their phone number is (385)831-7674.

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Hi I have in the past and more recently today was sitting with my right knee crossed in when I heard a huge pop and felt excruciating pain. I had to pull my leg straight and it popped again but ever since it’s been hard to stand at angles without it tinging out and becoming painful. This happens at random times but is very painful and so far this has been the most painful one, the pain normally stops after it’s repopped but this one hasn’t.

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    Ky,
    General popping and creaking of joints are harmless. That being said, sometimes popping joints can be a sign of degeneration that leads to osteoarthritis. Since you describe your popping as being more frequent and accompanied by pain, I would recommend seeing an orthopedic specialist. Joint swelling, tenderness, pain or stiffness can all be signs of a tear or cartilage injury. You will need to see your doctor for a diagnosis. Hope this helps.

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The back of my knee hurts sometimes after walking. Sometimes it starts to pain within est 45mins, sometimes it takes a few hrs to start having the pain. It feels like a muscle strain but it will goes away the next day.

When the pain comes, straightening my leg is possible but would be more painful. It has been a while, is this common? I don’t have any sports injury

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    Noelle,
    Try some simple stretches after walking. See if this helps lessen or completely alleviate your pain. It could be as simple as tight muscles after use. Also, try some knee strengthening exercises. If the muscles around the kneecap are weak this can cause pain. You can even consider seeing a Physical Therapist to teach you which stretches and strengthening exercises to complete.
    If the pain increases, is accompanied by swelling or redness, or if it is persistent, call your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine if you need to see a specialist. Happy walking!

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Hello, please I need help,I have been having severe pains in my knees and it swells all the time,sometimes I cant walk or knee down and it seems there is a wound inside my knee, please I really need your help

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    Akehwe,
    With persistent knee pain and swelling, we highly recommend scheduling an appointment with an orthopedic knee specialist. They can help determine the cause of your pain and swelling, and provide a treatment plan.

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Hello, I’ve had 2 knee surgeries for meniscus tear but my last surgery was about 4 years ago and recently my knee got swollen badly and I couldnt walk for a week. The swelling went down and i just feel pain and pressure on my knee cap I still dont have full mobility, I’m also experiencing pinching. I’m not sure if its something I should wait and see if it gets better or to go to the doctor.

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    Bella,
    Do you recall injuring your knee recently or doing anything to aggravate it?
    If you are still experiencing knee pain then I would recommend setting up an appointment. It’s hard to say if it will get better on it’s own or not, but typically, prolonged pain and decreased function should not be ignored.

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For about 6 months now my knee pops everytime I go from bent to straight. It’s worse and a lot louder when I’m standing but even does it when there is no weight on it. If I’m hiking or going up and down stairs it does hurt.

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I want to appoint for my knee pain

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I have a bakers cyst on my left knee. I’m in alot of pain most of the time..the doctors I’m seeing doesn’t seem to think it a problem.why am I in pain almost 24/7..

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    Nancy,
    If you are not getting the treatment you need, I would suggest getting a second opinion. We always suggest consulting with another doctor if you are unsure of the prescribed treatment plan, or lack thereof. Hope this helps.

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I only have knee pain when I’m hiking downhill. On the outside of my knees..sharp pain. This has been going on since my early 20s and I’m now 46. I exercise, go to the gym, walk. I love to hike but I’m afraid I may need to give it up.
Should I consult a knee specialist?
Any advice is most welcomed.

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    Amanda,
    If you are experiencing consistent knee pain, I would recommend seeing and Orthopedic knee specialist. It’s better to be safe. You could also try a Physical Therapist. They can give you specific knee exercises to help strengthen the knees, if necessary. Hope this helps.

    Reply

      Okk can you suggest me doctors

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        If you are in the Salt Lake City, Park City, or Tooele City, Utah area, feel free to give us a call @435-615-8822. If you are outside of these areas I would suggest calling the number on the back of your insurance card for in-network providers.

        Reply

I was sitting at my desk with legs crossed when all of a sudden I felt a severe pain and could not stand up and walk. After about 10 minutes I could walk but with pain. That was about 6 months ago. Now, my knee hurts and I can’t put weight on it like before. It also looks red and my massage therapist said it was swollen and warm to touch. What should I do? My general doctor just gave me lidocaine patch.

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    Sandra,
    A swollen, painful knee can have multiple causes. Overuse or heavy activity, lack of use or prolonged sitting, strains, underlying disease, and trauma are just a few causes of knee pain. If your pain and swelling has not decreased with RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation), I would recommend seeing an Orthopedic knee specialist. Swelling, redness and warmth around the joint should not be ignored – these can all be signs of possible infection. Hope this helps.

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    Did you by chance get your covid vaccine a few weeks prior to this event?

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      Yes I m having the same problems with my .and it started about three weeks after my covid shot could this be a side effect and please tell me this will go away

      Reply

I fell on my left knee a few years ago. I have arthritis in that knee. Actually both knees. Since the fall, that knee has hurt a lot more than the right. Right after the fall the x-ray showed no tears or breaks. Now my left knee is in constant pain. Why?

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    Donna,
    We are unable to determine the source of your knee pain without a proper examination. There are too many causes for general knee pain to rule out without an in-office visit.
    If you have swelling, limited range of motion, an unstable knee, or increased pain, I would recommend scheduling an appointment with an Orthopedic knee specialist. I hope you find this helpful.

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Pulled MCL and tore meniscus 3 years ago, it has healed as much as it will but knee still occasionally dislocates and needs to be manually reset when leg is bent greater than 90 degrees with weight on it, could excess fluid be causing this ?

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    Jacob,
    Often with a meniscus tear, it can feel like something is getting stuck in your knee. This can happen intermittently where sometimes it is bothersome and other times it is not. You will typically have pain with deep flexion and pivoting. At this point you would assume that your old MCL injury is healed. However, if you feel these prior injuries are interfering with activities you want to do and you feel your knee is swollen, then I would recommend having your knee evaluated by an orthopedist. Swelling is a sign that there is something going on in your knee that is causing excess fluid.

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    My right knee has been swelling with redness and some pain on the top and inner side. When I apply full body weight and go down stairs, if feels like the knee is moving inward and down as thought it can’t handle my body weight.

    In addition to the above, I’ve lost some mobility and have severe muscle atrophy on the right calf.

    My legs from the toes to the quadriceps always feel as like there’s severe to light tremors or like a constant and consistant light electrical charge going through both my feet and legs.

    I’ve also lost considerable strength in my right lower leg, now starting to show signs of swelling on the left knee and lower leg and knee with early atrophy on the left calf. At times the right knee when severely swollen, red and hot is clicking and cracking 6 to 11 times daily also has some deformity.

    My primary care doctor did a leg study due to my lower legs and feet always cold and pale to make sure blood and oxygen was flowing throughout my feet and legs properly – tested fine. She referred my to a rouhmetologist, however for the sake of time what would be best.

    In addition to my knee joints, right ankle swelling, hot and in some pain. I’m also experiencing this in my left shoulder and early signs in my right. Please advise.

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      Hi George,
      I think a workup from a rheumatologist would be beneficial as recommended by your primary care physician. Your rheumatologist would be able to draw specific labs to look for certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, etc. Good luck!

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My knees have doubled in size in the last ten years. I was very active in my younger years and still try to exercise every day. My knees are always stiff now and lately my left knee has given out and caused a great deal of pain in the bottom right side. I’m going to make an appointment to see a specialist but I so hope I don’t have to have a knee replacement. Thank you so much.

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I fell on left knee three weeks ago on the side walk. this was a very hard fall. got an xray. nothing broken. I’m still pain, there is still swelling and tenderness in knee. do I need to have it looked at and who do I see¿

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    Virginia,
    If nothing is broken, most minor sprains and injuries can be treated at home with rest, ice and elevation.
    If you are still experiencing pain though, that doesn’t seem to be improving, it is always a good idea to get it checked. I would recommend you contact an orthopedic knee specialist for a consultation.

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Thank you my Primary Dr won’t refer me to Orthopedic Dr and I need that referral to go he is trying to treat it . Still pain and swelling.

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    Martha,
    Most Orthopedic doctors don’t require a referral. The only reason you should need a referral is if your insurance company requires it. You can call your insurance company to verify their requirements. Additionally, if you feel you need to see an orthopedic doctor and your insurance company does require a referral, a Physical Therapist might also be able to provide you with that referral. Hope this helps.

    Reply

Wonderful! This has been a really informative post. Thank you for sharing this information. looking forward to more posts.Useful information. Keep sharing!!!

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Knee accumulate fluid not long after it has been aspirated and gets very painful.may need very torough exa
Mination

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Thank for the great content. I cant wait to read much more from you.

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    Thank you for this feedback. We greatly appreciate it.

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    I twisted my leg a week ago and since then I’m expecting pain in my right knee. I feel it the most when I’m going down the stairs, if feels like my knee/leg is about to brake as if it can’t handle the weight of my body. What should I do?
    Thanks

    Reply

      Adi,
      You should make a appointment with an orthopedic knee specialist. Walking on your injured knee opens the possibility of making the injury worse.

      Reply

    About a week ago i was going on a bike ride. my gear was too high and i pushed too hard on my pedal. heard a really strange crunching sound. I didn’t think much of it because it didn’t hurt at the time. When i got home and in bed i started feeling it, my knee really badly hurt. I slept it off and it felt better. But now whenever i exercise or do anything on the knee, it aches when i go to bed. Now, I’m 18 and I’ve never had knee pain so it’s not anything prior. The pain starts in my knee then shoots to my heel quickly and slowly climbs up my thigh.

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    I fell on my knee like 5 months ago.. and it still hurts what could that possibly be

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      Hi Jared,
      Sorry to hear about your knee. It is difficult to diagnose your knee pain without an examination and radiographs. But if you have tried rest, activity modifications, anti-inflammatories, icing, etc., and it has still not improved, then I would recommend you see your orthopedist for a proper diagnosis and targeted treatment. Best of luck with your knee’s recovery!

      Reply

    I had an MRI done by my general practitioner Dr. She referred me to a orthopedic specialist out of town. The MRI showed two cartiliage tears one a meniscus tear. 4 months later went to the aptmt and he didn’t have a copy of the MRI that I had done and he didn’t look at the x-rays taken while he seen me. Gave me a shot no prescription for pin except the cortisone shot and two other meds and ordered therapy and said my knee was stiff and needed to unstiff it . With the 1st xray the dr. said it was real bad arthritis. I’m going to school I want the pain to go away and still don’t know what I have for sure what is really going on here. It does not make sense to me. And my knee still hurts after he injected it.

    Reply

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