What could cause pain below the kneecap?

The area below the kneecap can hurt for several reasons. One common cause is patellofemoral syndrome, which happens when the joint where the kneecap meets the thigh bone does not move well, causing pain with activities like climbing stairs or sitting for a long time. Associated with this is chondromalacia patellae, where the cartilage under the kneecap softens or wears away. This can also be linked to patellofemoral malalignment, meaning the kneecap is not tracking properly over the knee joint. Overuse from running, cycling, or jumping can stress the tendons and create tendinopathy (inflammation of the tendon). In some cases, bursitis, an irritation of the small fluid-filled sacs near the knee, can also lead to pain. These conditions all make it hard for the knee to move smoothly and can cause discomfort when you are active. If you're experiencing knee pain and want to better understand what might be causing it, try our free AI symptom checker to help identify potential causes and next steps. Remember, this information is educational and it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and care.