My knee hurts when going down stairs
Frequent contexts of knee pain during movement and what factors may influence it.
Knee pain when going down stairs is especially frequent because this movement generates greater pressure on the joint.
Frequent causes
Patellofemoral syndrome: Alteration in the sliding of the kneecap over the femur. Produces diffuse pain in the front of the knee.
Chondromalacia patellae: Wear of the kneecap cartilage. Generates cracking sounds and pain when bending the knee under load.
Patellar tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the tibia. Common in active people.
Warning signs
When to act?
If pain is mild and only appears going down stairs, avoid overloading the knee. If it persists more than 2 weeks, consult your doctor.
Related guides
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