The Leading Causes of Hip and Knee Pain

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Hip and knee pain are among the most common complaints affecting both active individuals and people with physically demanding or repetitive daily activities. In fact, knee pain affects up to 25% of adults, and rates have increased significantly over recent decades.
 

The majority of hip and knee complaints we see clinically involve meniscus irritation in the knee and tendon overload around the hip or knee.
 

Meniscus Injuries

The meniscus is a cartilage structure inside the knee that helps absorb shock and stabilise the joint. It can become irritated or injured with twisting movements, deep bending, or repetitive loading.
 

Typical symptoms:

• Knee pain with squatting or twisting

• Pain when going up or down stairs

• Clicking or catching sensations in the knee

• Swelling or stiffness after activity
   

Meniscus injuries are commonly linked to twisting movements, running, deep squatting, or sudden increases in activity.
 

Tendon Overload (Hip and Knee)

Tendons around the hip and knee help control movement and absorb force. When overloaded repeatedly, they can become irritated and painful.
 

Common tendon-related problems include:

• Gluteal tendon overload (lateral hip pain)

• Patellar tendon irritation (front of knee pain)

• Hamstring or quadriceps tendon strain
   

Typical symptoms:

• Pain with walking, running, or stairs

• Pain when rising from sitting

• Localised tenderness around the hip or knee

• Stiffness after activity or prolonged rest
   

Tendon overload is often related to repetitive activity, poor movement control, muscle weakness, or sudden changes in training load.