You had a peaceful walk in the park, and nothing seemed to bother you. But as you start climbing the stairs to your apartment, a sharp pain suddenly hits your knees. It’s a surprising contrast to the easy walk, leaving you wondering why your knees hurt so much only when going upstairs.
Many patients come in with this query related to knee pain when climbing stairs but not when walking. In this blog, we will explain the causes and symptoms, who is at risk, and the diagnosis and treatments of this pain condition.
What Causes Knee Pain When Climbing Stairs But Not Walking
Let’s have a look at the top four causes of knee pain during climbing stairs:
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)
This condition causes pain around or behind the kneecap, especially when climbing stairs, running, or squatting. It can happen due to overuse, muscle imbalances, or the knee not aligning properly. - Chondromalacia Patella
This is when the cartilage under the kneecap softens or breaks down, causing pain when bending the knee, like when climbing stairs. It can happen from misalignment, overuse, or injury. - Muscle Imbalances
Relying too much on the quadriceps (front thigh muscles) instead of using the glutes and hamstrings can put extra pressure on the knee when climbing stairs, causing pain. - Meniscus Tears or Ligament Injuries
Damage to the meniscus or ligament can cause pain and instability in the knee, especially during activities like stair climbing. - Osteoarthritis
This is when the cartilage in the knee wears down, causing pain during weight-bearing activities like climbing stairs, though it might not hurt as much when walking on flat surfaces.
Who Is At Risk Of Developing This Condition
Some people are at a higher risk of developing knee pain while climbing stairs than others. Listed below are some examples:
- Athletes and others who strain their knees through exercise or activity
- Adolescents, due to temporary muscle imbalances during growth
- Women, as they often have less muscle mass around the knee
- People with a previous knee injury, such as a dislocation
- People with tight hamstrings, flat feet, leg length differences, or loose joints
- People with patellar hypermobility, where the kneecap moves too much
Treatment For Knee Pain While Climbing Stairs
If you suspect persistent knee pain while climbing stairs, here are some treatment options you can consider:
- Performing Low-Impact Exercises
Many exercises aim at relieving strain on your knees. You can ask your healthcare provider or surf online videos to see which ones can help you most. Walking and swimming are good options too. - Using Orthotics and Shoe Inserts
If your pain is caused by flat feet, orthotics and shoe inserts can help provide support and improve alignment. - Avoiding Strenuous Activities
Avoid activities that put extra strain on your knees, like running or jumping, until you have recovered from your condition. - Taking Pain Medications
If your knee pain causes persistent discomfort, over-the-counter pain relief medications can help.
Overall Insight
Knee pain when climbing stairs can be caused by several factors, including muscle imbalances, cartilage issues, or previous injuries. If you experience this pain, it is important to understand the cause and seek appropriate treatment, such as low-impact exercises, orthotics, and avoiding strenuous activities.
If you suspect knee pain when climbing stairs but not walking, visit Genesis Pain Clinic for a quick diagnosis, effective pain-relieving treatments, and long-term care options. Call us at (913) 871-9888.