What You're Experiencing

Sharp or aching pain in one or both knees when going up or down stairs.

When to seek help: This symptom should be assessed by a physiotherapist within the next 1-2 weeks to prevent it from worsening.

Likely Causes

This symptom is commonly caused by one or more of the following conditions. A physiotherapist can identify the exact cause through a thorough assessment.

1 Patellofemoral syndrome (runner's knee)
2 Osteoarthritis
3 Meniscus tear
4 Weak quadriceps muscles

What a Physiotherapist Will Do

1. Assessment

Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough examination including movement tests, palpation, and posture analysis to identify the root cause of your knee pain when climbing stairs.

2. Diagnosis

Based on the assessment, they'll explain which of the likely causes applies to you and discuss the best treatment approach.

3. Treatment

Treatment typically combines hands-on therapy for immediate relief with targeted exercises to address the underlying cause. Most patients notice improvement within 2-4 sessions.

4. Home Programme

You'll receive specific exercises and advice to continue your recovery at home, helping you get better faster between sessions.

Related Conditions & Treatments

Learn more about the conditions and treatments related to this symptom:

condition Knee Pain → treatment Exercise Therapy → treatment Manual Therapy →

Helpful Articles

Knee Brace Vs Physiotherapy →Best Exercises Knee Pain →Flat Feet And Knee Pain →

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my knee hurt on stairs but not walking?

Stairs put 3-4 times your body weight through the knee joint compared to walking. Weak quadriceps or cartilage wear causes pain under this increased load. Strengthening exercises fix this in 4-6 weeks.

Is it normal to have knee pain when climbing stairs?

While common, it's not normal. Pain when climbing stairs often indicates patellofemoral syndrome, early osteoarthritis, or muscle weakness. A physiotherapist can identify the cause and provide targeted exercises.

Can I exercise with knee pain?

Yes, but the right exercises matter. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and specific strengthening exercises are usually safe. Avoid deep squats and high-impact activities until assessed by a physiotherapist.