Skip to content
Dr Tabane MoagiSpecialist Orthopaedic Surgeon

Condition

Knee pain

Pain in or around the knee joint, which may come from cartilage, the meniscus, ligaments, tendons or the kneecap.

What it usually feels like

  • Pain on stairs, especially coming down
  • Swelling after activity
  • A knee that clicks, catches or feels like it may give way

Common causes

  • Cartilage wear
  • A torn meniscus
  • Ligament injury
  • Kneecap tracking problems
  • Overuse in sport

Treatment

How this is treated

Treatment starts with the least invasive option that is likely to work.

  1. Step 1

    Strengthening the thigh muscle, which unloads the joint

  2. Step 2

    Activity change, bracing or an injection

  3. Step 3

    Arthroscopic surgery or knee replacement where indicated

See related treatmentsBook a Consultation

Do not wait

When to be seen urgently

  • The knee locks and will not straighten
  • It gave way with a loud pop and swelled within hours

This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Only an examination can tell you what is wrong with your joint.

If you need help now

Outside consulting hours, report to the Casualty Department at Netcare Ferncrest Hospital or Life Peglerae Hospital in Rustenburg. If the injury is life-threatening, call 10177 immediately. Please do not use the enquiry form for an emergency.

CallWhatsAppBook