What if physiotherapy does not relieve knee pain?

Knee pain may continue if swelling, weakness, limited flexibility, poor movement control, or an injury is still affecting the joint. The exercise choice, technique, load, or pace may need changing. Pain can also come from a problem that needs assessment beyond a routine rehabilitation plan, so persistent symptoms should be discussed rather than judged by pain alone.

Record where the pain is, what triggers it, whether the knee locks or gives way, and whether swelling appears after activity. Mention clicking only if it occurs with pain, catching, or loss of function.

Book a review with your physiotherapist or doctor. They can reassess walking, strength, balance, knee movement, and exercise form, then modify the programme or consider another evaluation. Continue only the movements that fit your agreed plan and stay within tolerable limits; avoid testing the knee through sharp pain, repeated deep bending, or high-impact activity while symptoms are unsettled.

Bring your exercise record and details of any injury, operation, medicines, or change in activity. See [Knee Pain](/symptoms/knee-pain/) and [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) for related information.

Seek prompt assessment after a major injury, if the knee is hot and very swollen, or if fever accompanies joint pain. Get earlier help for a locked knee, new inability to bear weight, increasing weakness, numbness, or repeated giving way. A suddenly deformed knee or severe pain after trauma needs urgent care.

Ask: What might be causing the continuing pain? Does my knee need further examination or imaging? Which exercises and activities are suitable now? How should I respond to swelling or a flare?