Knee Pain When Descending Stairs: Causes and Solutions

Experiencing pain in the knee when going down stairs?

Hello Doctor: I am someone who usually does not exercise, but since I will be enlisting in the military next month, I wanted to start training my physical fitness.
Therefore, I began running 3000 meters on the track every day starting from May 28.
I always warm up before running and do not push myself too hard; I jog until I feel fatigued and then switch to walking to complete the distance.
Aside from experiencing muscle soreness the day after my first run, which I rested for a day, my running condition remained the same until June 5, one week later.
After running that day and returning home, I noticed that my left knee hurts whenever I go downstairs or put weight on my left foot.
The pain is most noticeable when standing up and going down stairs, and it has persisted for a week now.
Doctor, what do you think my condition might be? Should I see an orthopedic specialist, or will resting allow it to heal on its own? Thank you.

Xiao Cai Ge, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/06/12

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Based on your symptoms, it is most likely a problem with the patellofemoral joint.
It could be due to malalignment of the joint or patellar chondromalacia.
I recommend visiting an orthopedic clinic for further evaluation.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2011/06/12

More Info

Knee pain, especially when descending stairs, can be a common issue, particularly for individuals who are not accustomed to regular physical activity. In your case, it seems that the sudden increase in physical activity, specifically running, may have contributed to the discomfort you are experiencing in your left knee.
There are several potential causes for knee pain when descending stairs. One of the most common is patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), often referred to as "runner's knee." This condition occurs when the patella (kneecap) does not track properly in the femoral groove, leading to pain, especially during activities that put stress on the knee, such as going down stairs or squatting.
Another possibility is that you may have developed a strain or minor injury to the ligaments or tendons around the knee, particularly if you have increased your activity level significantly. The quadriceps tendon and patellar tendon are particularly susceptible to strain with activities that involve running and jumping. Additionally, overuse injuries can occur when the body is not adequately conditioned for the level of activity being performed.

It is also worth considering the possibility of iliotibial band syndrome, which can cause pain on the outer side of the knee and may be exacerbated by activities like running and descending stairs. This condition occurs when the iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh, becomes tight and rubs against the knee joint.

Given that your pain has persisted for a week and is affecting your ability to perform daily activities, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably an orthopedic specialist. They can perform a thorough examination, which may include physical assessments and imaging studies such as X-rays or an MRI, to determine the exact cause of your knee pain.

In the meantime, there are several self-care strategies you can implement to help alleviate your symptoms:
1. Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, especially running and descending stairs. Allow your knee time to heal.

2. Ice Therapy: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling and numb the pain.

3. Compression: Use a knee brace or wrap to provide support and reduce swelling.

4. Elevation: Keep your knee elevated above the level of your heart to help reduce swelling.

5. Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Once the acute pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles can help improve stability and reduce the risk of future injuries.

6. Gradual Return to Activity: When you feel ready to resume physical activity, do so gradually. Consider incorporating low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, to maintain fitness without placing excessive strain on your knee.

7. Consult a Physical Therapist: A physical therapist can provide personalized exercises and treatments to help strengthen the muscles around your knee and improve your overall biomechanics.

In summary, while it is possible that your knee pain may resolve with rest and self-care, it is essential to seek professional evaluation if the pain persists or worsens. Early intervention can help prevent more severe injuries and ensure a safe return to physical activity.

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