Reasons for Knee Pain in Young Age
Knee pain is often considered a problem of older adults, but today many teenagers and young adults also experience knee discomfort. Whether you are into sports, gym workouts, long working hours, or sedentary lifestyle knee pain can affect your mobility and quality of life. According to orthopedic specialists like Dr. Chintan Hegde, Knee & Shoulder Surgeon in Malad, knee pain at a young age should never be ignored, because early diagnosis ensures faster recovery and prevents long-term damage.
Common Reasons for Knee Pain in Young Age
1. Sports Injuries
Young individuals involved in sports or gym activities frequently injure their knee ligaments, cartilage, or tendons.
Common Sports-Related Causes
- ACL tear
- Meniscus injury
- Patellar dislocation
- Ligament sprain
- Tendon strain
Symptoms
- Sudden pain
- Swelling
- Locking or instability of knee
- Difficulty bending or straightening the leg
2. Overuse or Repetitive Strain
Repetitive kneeling, jumping, running, or squatting can irritate the knee joint.
Conditions Caused
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome
- Runner’s knee
- Jumper’s knee (Patellar tendinitis)
Who Is at Risk?
- Athletes
- Gym-goers
- Dancers
- People who run or cycle regularly
3. Poor Posture & Muscle Imbalance
Weak thigh, hip, or glute muscles can put extra pressure on the knee.
Common Issues
- Flat feet
- Weak quadriceps
- Tight hamstrings
- Wrong footwear
These factors alter the alignment of the knee, leading to pain during walking, climbing stairs, or exercises.
4. Obesity or Sudden Weight Gain
Extra body weight increases the load on knee joints. Excess weight accelerates cartilage wear and tear even in young adults.
5. Sedentary Lifestyle
Long sitting hours (office jobs, study, gaming, etc.) weaken muscles around the knee.
Results In:
- Stiffness
- Poor joint lubrication
- Pain when standing after long sitting
6. Vitamin D & Calcium Deficiency
Many young adults have low Vitamin D and Calcium levels, making bones weak.
Symptoms
- Bone pain
- Muscle cramps
- Fatigue
- Knee weakness
7. Early Onset Arthritis
Though rare, some young people develop:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis (post-injury)
These conditions cause inflammation, stiffness, and persistent pain.
8. Previous Injury Not Healed Properly
Incomplete healing of old injuries leads to chronic knee pain later.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Consult an orthopedic specialist if you experience:
- Persistent knee pain for more than 1 week
- Swelling or redness
- Knee locking or giving way
- Inability to bear weight
- Pain after sports injury
Early treatment prevents complications.
Diagnosis of Knee Pain
A knee specialist like Dr. Chintan Hegde in Malad may recommend:
- Physical examination
- X-ray
- MRI
- Vitamin D/Calcium tests
This helps find the exact cause and decide the best treatment.
Treatment Options for Knee Pain
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:
1. Medication
- Anti-inflammatory medicines
- Vitamin D & Calcium supplements
2. Physiotherapy
Strengthens muscles and restores knee function.
3. Lifestyle Modifications
- Weight control
- Correct footwear
- Avoiding excessive strain
4. Injections
For severe pain:
- PRP
- Viscosupplementation
5. Surgery (Only When Needed)
If ligament tears or meniscus damage is severe, arthroscopic surgery may be required.
Preventing Knee Pain at a Young Age
- Warm up before exercise
- Avoid overtraining
- Maintain healthy weight
- Strengthen thigh & hip muscles
- Wear proper shoes
- Take breaks from long sitting
- Check Vitamin D levels regularly
Conclusion
Knee pain in young people is more common than ever due to lifestyle, sports activities, and nutritional deficiencies. The good news is that most cases can be treated effectively with early diagnosis and proper care. If you’re experiencing knee pain, consult Dr. Chintan Hegde, a leading Knee & Shoulder Specialist in Malad, for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment.
Contact Dr. Chintan Hegde
Clinic Location: Malad, Mumbai
Call Now to Book an Appointment : +91 7738114373
Visit https://drchintanhegde.com/contact-us/
Clinic Location: Malad, Mumbai Call Now to Book an Appointment : +91 7738114373 Visit https://drchintanhegde.com/contact-us/ 
