What Are the Common Symptoms of a Knee Injury?

When a knee is injured, people might notice several warning signs. One of the first signs is pain, which can be sharp or aching. Swelling often follows the pain and can make the knee feel tight. Bruising on or around the knee is also common because small blood vessels may break. Sometimes, the knee might feel stiff or hard to bend. Other signs include a popping or clicking sound at the time of injury, and in some cases, the knee may seem unstable or wobbly, making it hard to walk. This instability can occur if ligaments like the anterior or posterior cruciate ligament get injured. For injuries like iliotibial band syndrome, the pain might be more along the side of the knee. If the injury is related to wear and tear over time, like in knee osteoarthritis, there might be a gradual increase in stiffness and pain, especially after resting or in the morning. Checking for these symptoms is important, but make sure to see a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation if you notice these signs.