What Might Cause Pain Behind the Knee When Walking Down Stairs?

When you walk downstairs, your knee has to work harder because it bends a lot, putting extra stress on the joint and the soft tissues around your knee. This can lead to a problem called patellofemoral pain syndrome. Changes in the way you walk, known as altered gait patterns, can also increase the stress on the knee, making the pain worse. If this pain continues or gets worse, it may be a good idea to see a healthcare professional. They can suggest treatments like rest, ice, exercises to strengthen the leg muscles, or other methods to help improve the way your knee moves and relieve the pain.