Why Does Pain Occur at the Top of the Knee When Squatting?

When you squat, your knee works hard to help hold your body and move with you. Sometimes, if your muscles are weak or your form isn’t quite right, the top part of your knee may feel pain. This pain can come from the tissues around the kneecap (the patella) being pushed or rubbed too much when you bend your knee. The way the kneecap slides over the bones can be affected during squatting, and if it moves too easily or not enough, it may cause irritation. In some cases, small muscles and tendons around the knee might be strained or overused, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Additionally, if the force from the squat is too much for the knee to handle, it can stress the joint and lead to pain. Making sure you have good form, building strength in your leg muscles, and taking breaks when needed can help reduce this pain.