Why do I have Knee Pain when Walking or Standing?
Usually, pain when walking or standing may be due to degeneration or damage of two main structures inside the knee:
- Cartilage, the soft bone inside the knee
- Meniscus, the shock absorption structure inside the knee
Over-exercise or over-use of the knee may cause such pain, but it would usually also indicate that there has been some degeneration inside the knee.
How severe is my degeneration or damage?
The degree and duration of pain may indicate how severe the condition is, but is not always accurate.
For example, if you have light pain that lasts 5 to 10 min after walking for an hour or more, it may mean early degeneration of the knee, and you can reduce such prolonged walking to prevent the condition from worsening. If you have pain associated with soreness and weakness, that lasts into the night, pain that worsens as you persist to walk more, this may mean more serious damage. Sometimes, patients do not have much pain, but medical examination finds a serious condition such as Full-Thickness cartilage damage or a Meniscus Tear.
Medical Examination includes assessment of your symptoms, physical exam, and xrays and/or MRI scan. This is the most accurate way of assessing the severity of your condition, and treatment plans can then be proposed.
Treating Knee Pain When Walking or Standing
Early stages of knee degeneration may improve by taking supplements such as collagen, glucosamine, or ginger extract. Performing knee strengthening exercises can also help the condition of your knee.
Moderate or severe conditions would usually require more treatment in order to get rid of the current pain and prolong the lifespan of the knee. This is especially important for people in their 30's to 50's who will need to make sure they have a good knee to last them.
Subsequent treatment options include:
- Lubricant injections
- Biological injections to stimulate healing
- Repair Key-Hole procedures to repair structures in the knee
- Knee Replacement procedures
Treating any condition in its early stages will likely have a faster and better recovery as compared to treating it in its later stages.
Frequently-asked Questions
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What are the treatment methods for knee pain?
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I have mild pain in the knee. Is it ok to continue with sports?
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I injured my knee two weeks ago and it is still painful now. Should I get it checked?
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Do I need a referral letter from my family doctor?
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Will my insurance cover the treatment?
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What advanced treatments do you have for my knee?
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Surgery is a big thing. I am afraid...
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Specialises in Knee injuries, degeneration, and complex knee issues
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Uses treatments with sound scientific basis
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Approachable and empathetic
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Author of numerous book chapters on knee surgeries
Contact Information
38 Irrawaddy Road, Mt Elizabeth Novena Hospital Specialist Centre #07-40
Singapore 329563
We are a 3-min walk from Novena MRT Station. Take Exit A from the station.
Tel: 6970 5835
Fax: 6970 5935
Email: contact@coc.sg
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri: 9am to 6pm, Sat: 9am to 1pm
Emergency consults, Call/Text/WhatsApp: 9623 7153
