When should I be concerned about knee pain?

Most people have little aches and pains in their knees now and then, but some signs mean you should worry more. You should be concerned when your pain is strong, lasts for several weeks without getting better, or happens after an injury like a fall or a twist. Also, if you see a lot of swelling, redness, or warmth in your knee, it could be a sign of an infection or serious injury. Other things that might be worrisome include a feeling that your knee is unstable or if you have trouble putting weight on it during walking or playing. If the knee pain is continuous or causing movement issues, it might be a sign of a condition that needs more careful evaluation. Sometimes, more detailed tests like x-rays or an MRI are needed to make sure there is no serious damage inside the joint or bones. If you're unsure about your symptoms, you can start by taking a free symptom checker assessment to better understand what might be causing your discomfort and whether you should seek immediate medical attention.