Why do your knees hurt when I walk up or down stairs?

Knee discomfort while ascending or descending stairs is a widespread issue that can affect people of various age and fitness levels. Here are some potential causes why you might experience such pain:

Inadequate Strength and Flexibility:

The muscles surrounding the knee joint, particularly the quadriceps (front thigh muscles) and hamstrings (back thigh muscles) play a crucial role in moving your legs up and down the stairs. If these muscles are weak or lack flexibility, they can strain or become fatigued more easily, leading to knee pain.

Overuse:

If you suddenly increase the intensity or duration of your stair climbing activity (such as during exercise or hiking), your knees may experience overuse and become painful

Knee Osteoarthritis:

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes cartilage in the knee to wear down over time. This can lead to inflammation and pain in the joint, especially during weight bearing activities like stair climbing.

Meniscus Tear:

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as cushion between the bones in your knee. If the meniscus is torn, it can cause knee pain, particularly when going up or down stairs.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome:

This condition, commonly referred to as "runner's knee", is caused by irritation of tissue behind your kneecap. Ascending and descending stairs can aggravate the symptoms of this syndrome

Other Medical Conditions:

In some cases, knee pain during stair climbing can be a symptom of underlying medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout or an infection.

If your knee pain when walking up or down stairs persists, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider, such as a physiotherapist or orthopedic specialist, to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment. They can assess your condition, provide a proper diagnosis, and recommend exercises or treatment options to address your knee pain effectively.