When should you worry about knee pain if you have patellofemoral pain syndrome?

Patellofemoral pain syndrome involves discomfort around or behind the kneecap. It commonly flares with stairs, squatting, kneeling, running, or sitting with the knee bent for a long time. Popping or mild grinding can occur without meaning that the joint is being damaged. Pain that steadily worsens, occurs at rest or overnight, or follows a clear injury should be assessed because other knee problems can produce similar symptoms. Read more about Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome or Knee Pain.

Temporarily reduce the depth and frequency of painful squats, stairs, running, and jumping. Choose comfortable activities such as easy walking or low-resistance cycling if they do not increase symptoms. A physiotherapist can assess hip and leg movement and prescribe progressive exercises for strength and control. Use symptom response later that day and the next morning to guide progression, rather than returning suddenly to full training.

Seek urgent care if you cannot bear weight, the knee is visibly deformed, it locks so you cannot fully bend or straighten it, or pain began after a substantial twist or impact. Get prompt medical advice for a hot, red, rapidly swollen knee, fever, or feeling unwell. Arrange a routine review when pain repeatedly disrupts sleep, work, or exercise despite sensible activity changes.

Ask which movements are safe for you, how to adjust stairs or sport, and which strengthening exercises should come first. Ask how long to trial the plan, whether another cause needs checking, and which symptoms mean you should return sooner.