Where it hurts
Common causes of knee pain
Knee osteoarthritis
Gradual change in the cartilage and bone of the knee joint, causing pain, stiffness and sometimes swelling. It becomes more common from middle age and after previous knee injuries.
Patellofemoral pain ("runner's knee")
Pain around or behind the kneecap, often worse on stairs, when squatting, running downhill or after sitting for a long time.
Patellar tendinopathy ("jumper's knee")
Pain in the tendon just below the kneecap, brought on by jumping, running and changing direction.
Read the tendon injuries guide →Meniscus injuries
Tears of the cartilage cushions inside the knee, from a twisting injury or gradual wear. They can cause pain along the joint line, swelling, catching or locking.
Ligament sprains and ACL injuries
Injuries to the ligaments that keep the knee stable, often from a twist, an awkward landing or a tackle. An ACL tear typically causes rapid swelling and a feeling of the knee giving way.
Getting help
When to see a sports physician
Book an assessment if you have:
- Knee pain that has lasted more than a few weeks
- Swelling of the knee
- The knee locking, catching or giving way
- Pain that is stopping you from playing sport or walking comfortably
- Knee pain at night
Diagnosis
How your knee is assessed
Assessment starts with a detailed history of your symptoms, activity and general health, and a clinical examination of the knee — how it moves, how stable it is, and how you walk, squat or run.
Imaging is arranged only when it will help guide your treatment. Depending on the problem, this may be an X-ray, an ultrasound in clinic or an MRI.
Your treatment plan
Treatment options
Treatment depends on your diagnosis, how long you have had symptoms, your activity goals and your imaging. Options are discussed after a full consultation and examination.
- 1
Load management and activity modification
Adjusting training or daily load so the knee can settle.
- 2
Structured rehabilitation
Progressive strength and movement work with our on-site rehab team. For most knee conditions, including osteoarthritis, this is the foundation of care.
- 3
Weight and lifestyle support
Where relevant to knee load.
- 4
Image-guided injections
Ultrasound-guided injections may be considered for some patients. Depending on the condition, options can include corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
- For mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis, PRP has some evidence for short- to medium-term symptom relief. It does not reverse arthritis, it is less suited to advanced (bone-on-bone) disease, and medical aid often does not cover it.
- 5
Surgical referral
If non-surgical care is not appropriate, we refer you to an orthopaedic surgeon.
Your visit
What to expect at your first consultation
- Your first consultation is longer than a follow-up visit, to allow time for a full history, an examination of your knee and a discussion of your options.
- Please bring any previous X-rays, scans or reports, and a list of any medication you take.
- You leave with a diagnosis, or a plan to confirm it, and a written treatment plan.
Questions
Knee pain: frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly via WhatsApp. If you have notes from another doctor or physiotherapist, please bring them. Check with your medical aid about cover for your consultation.
Do I need a scan before my appointment?
No. Most knee problems can be diagnosed from your history and examination. If imaging is needed, Dr. Ganda will arrange it. If you have already had scans, bring the images and reports.
Can I keep running?
Often yes, with changes. Many people can keep running at a reduced level if pain stays mild and settles by the next day. Your plan will set out what is safe for your knee.
Will I need surgery?
Most knee pain, including most knee osteoarthritis, is managed without surgery. Some injuries, such as certain ACL or meniscus tears, may need an orthopaedic surgeon's opinion, and Dr. Ganda will refer you when that is the case.
Where is the practice?
Dr. Janesh Ganda consults at 55 Scott Road, Observatory, Cape Town. Consultations can be booked via WhatsApp.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information about knee pain for patient education only. It is not medical advice and does not replace a consultation. For medical advice about your own condition, please consult Dr. Ganda or your own healthcare provider.