Ask an Expert: Knee pain/stiffness

Sports Medicine

Knee pain/stiffness
10/14/2008

Question:

Is the pain I have on the left side of my left knee serious enough to see a doctor about? I purchased an adjustable knee support at Walmart which seems to help. The biggest problem is going down steps...it hurts to bend my left knee; need to put my `bad` leg down first. Going up, I use my `good` leg. Thanks for your help : )

Answer:

You are correct in that "Up with the good and down with the bad." is the usual recommendation for negotiating stairs, curbs, etc., when a knee is painful. Some reasons to seriously consider consulting with a physician for your knee pain would include the following:

If your knee pain interferes with engaging in desired activities;

If your knee pain awakens you;

If your knee pain is getting worse (despite some benefit from your knee support); and

If your knee has been locking, swelling, or buckling.

Best wishes.

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Response by:

Brian L Bowyer, MD
Clinical Associate Professor
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University