What Could Cause a Burning Sensation in the Knee at Night?

A burning feeling in your knee at night might occur if you have tendinitis or osteoarthritis. Tendinitis of the knees is an inflammation of the knee tendons, oftentimes due to overuse or other injury. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage in your knee slowly wears down. This wear can lead to pain and a burning sensation when the joint becomes inflamed (red and swollen), especially during flare-ups when you feel extra pain. Often, these painful flares can feel stronger at night when you are resting and notice the discomfort more. Another possibility is a nerve-related condition called erythromelalgia, where you feel burning pain and warmth in the limbs. Although erythromelalgia most often affects the feet, it can sometimes affect the knee too. For some people the burning pain can affect sleep and comfort. If you notice these symptoms often, it might help to talk with a doctor who can examine your muscles, joints, and nerves. They can help find out what is causing the pain and advise you on how to feel better. Remember, this information is for learning and is not a substitute for seeing a healthcare professional.