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Knee pain is often thought to be a condition found exclusively among older adults or professional athletes, but it can affect regular young adults as well. Whether it's due to sports injuries, lifestyle factors or underlying conditions, knee pain in younger populations is a common concern.
By Arete Orthopaedic Centre
Medically Reviewed by Dr Wang Lushun
Understanding the Knee Joint
The knee is the largest and one of the most complex joints in the body. It’s composed of bones (femur, tibia, patella), cartilage (including the meniscus), ligaments (such as the ACL and PCL) and tendons.
These structures work together to allow movement, absorb shock, and provide stability. Because of its complexity and frequent use, the knee is especially vulnerable to stress, strain and injury.
Common Causes of Knee Pain in Young Adults
1. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
Often called “runner’s knee,” PFPS is one of the most common causes of knee pain in young adults. It typically results from overuse, poor biomechanics or muscle imbalances that affect the tracking of the kneecap (patella) over the femur.
Symptoms:
Pain around or behind the kneecap
Worsened by climbing stairs, squatting or sitting for long periods
A grinding or clicking sensation
2. Ligament Injuries
The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and MCL (medial collateral ligament) are commonly injured in sports involving sudden stops or direction changes, such as football, basketball or soccer.
The meniscus is a crescent-shaped cartilage that cushions the knee. A tear can occur due to trauma or repeated stress, particularly during twisting motions.
Symptoms:
Localised pain on one side of the knee
Swelling
Locking or catching sensation
4. Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)
The iliotibial (IT) band is a thick band of tissue running from the hip to the knee. In runners and cyclists, this band can become irritated and inflamed where it crosses the knee joint.
Symptoms:
Sharp pain on the outside of the knee
Typically worsens during running, especially downhill
Decreases with rest
5. Tendinitis
Inflammation of the tendons around the knee (most commonly the patellar or quadriceps tendon) is often due to repetitive stress and strain.
Symptoms:
Pain with activity, particularly jumping or sprinting
Localised tenderness and swelling
Stiffness after rest
Risk Factors of Knee Pain in Young Adults
Several lifestyle and anatomical factors can increase the risk of knee pain in young adults. These may include:
Overuse or high-impact sports
Improper training technique
Poor footwear or lack of arch support
Muscle imbalances or weakness, especially in the hips and thighs
Obesity which increases load on the knee joint
Hypermobile joints or flat feet
When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist
It’s tempting for young adults to dismiss knee pain as temporary or try to push through it. However, persistent or worsening pain should never be ignored. Please seek medical attention if you experience:
Pain lasting more than a week
Swelling or redness
Difficulty bearing weight
Instability or a “giving way” sensation
Limited range of motion
Locking or catching of the joint
Treatment Options for Knee Pain
Conservative Treatments
In most cases, knee pain in young adults can be managed without surgery.
Rest and Activity Modification: For example, reducing aggravating activities like running or squatting
Physiotherapy: Tailored exercises to correct biomechanical issues, improve flexibility, and strengthen supporting muscles
Bracing or Taping: For added support or improved patellar tracking
Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): To relieve pain and swelling
Surgical Intervention
If conservative methods fail, surgery may be considered. Common procedures include:
Arthroscopy: for meniscal repairs or cartilage smoothing
Realignment procedures: in severe cases of patellar instability
With early intervention and appropriate treatment, most young adults with knee pain recover fully and return to normal activities. Young adults are often resilient, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to long-term joint damage. Taking symptoms seriously and seeking professional help from an orthopaedic specialist early can preserve joint health for years to come.
Dr Wang Lushun is a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with over 18 years of experience. Formerly heading
the Hip and Knee Division at Ng Teng Fong Hospital, Dr Wang is skilled in sports surgery, complex hip and
knee replacements, and minimally invasive surgery, including advanced robotic surgery. Trained in the UK and
France, Dr Wang is dedicated to providing comprehensive and effective orthopaedic care to all his patients.
Trusted
Leadership on Orthopaedic Advisory Boards
Skilful
Double Fellowships at Centres of Excellence
Experienced
Senior Consultant with Over 18 Years of Experience
