What could cause pain at the top of the knee when bending?

When bending your knee, you might feel pain at the top because something inside is getting irritated. One condition called synovial plica syndrome happens when a small fold in the lining of your knee becomes inflamed through repeated use or overuse. This fold, called the plica, can start to rub against nearby structures when you move your knee, especially during bending, causing pain.

Other causes can include wear and tear from knee osteoarthritis or a past knee injury that has changed how your knee moves. When parts of the knee do not work together as they should, bending the knee might put extra stress on already sensitive areas, leading to discomfort. It is important to note that while synovial plica syndrome is one cause, different factors like your history of knee injuries or other knee conditions can also contribute to this pain.

If pain continues, you can check your symptoms with a free AI-powered tool or discuss it with a doctor to understand the exact reason and find the best way to manage it.