Mayo Clinic Care Network Content
Definitions

Knee pain


When to make a doctor’s appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

  • Injury accompanied by redness, swelling, warmth, significant pain
  • Fever
  • Persists
  • Pain gets worse

Self-care

Weight loss can help long-term knee pain. For new pain, rest, apply ice several times a day, keep the injured area elevated, and wrap the area with an elastic bandage.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a doctor immediately if:

  • Popping sound when knee injured
  • Knee looks deformed
  • Severe pain
  • Sudden swelling
  • Unable to use knee

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

  • Injury accompanied by redness, swelling, warmth, significant pain
  • Fever
  • Persists
  • Pain gets worse