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Knee Pain

Knee pain can affect people of all ages, from active runners to those managing arthritis. It may stem from the kneecap, ligaments, cartilage, tendons or overload. Most knee pain responds well to a strengthening and loading programme tailored to the cause, often alongside hands-on treatment and activity guidance.

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Knee Pain

Common symptoms

  • Pain at the front, sides or back of the knee
  • Pain with squatting, stairs, running or kneeling
  • Swelling, stiffness or a feeling of giving way
  • Reduced strength or confidence in the leg

Common causes

  • Patellofemoral (kneecap) pain and overload
  • Tendon issues such as patellar tendinopathy
  • Ligament or cartilage injuries
  • Osteoarthritis and age-related change

How physiotherapy helps

We assess your knee, movement and strength to find the cause, then build a progressive loading programme — the most evidence-supported approach for most knee pain — alongside hands-on treatment and clear activity advice. Whether you're returning to sport or managing arthritis, we tailor the plan to your goals.

General self-care tips

  • Keep moving and stay active in ways that don't sharply aggravate the knee
  • Progress loading gradually rather than doing too much too soon
  • Build leg strength, which supports and protects the knee
  • For arthritis, remember that appropriate exercise is a first-line treatment

Knee Pain — frequently asked questions

Is exercise safe if I have knee osteoarthritis?
Yes — appropriate, guided exercise is one of the most effective first-line treatments for knee osteoarthritis. It typically reduces pain and improves function. We tailor loading to your knee so it helps rather than flares.
Do I need a scan for knee pain?
Often not. Many knee problems are diagnosed through assessment and respond to rehabilitation. Imaging is used selectively when it will change management — we can advise whether it's needed.

How we treat it

Physiotherapy

Assessment and treatment for back, neck, shoulder, knee, hip, ankle and other joint or muscle problems.

Sports Rehabilitation

Recover from injury and rebuild strength, mobility and confidence to return to your sport safely.

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

Structured exercise and treatment to restore movement, strength and function after surgery.

Please note: This information is general in nature and isn’t a substitute for individual assessment or medical advice. Everyone is different — book an assessment so we can tailor advice to you. If you have severe, worsening or concerning symptoms, seek prompt medical attention.

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Knee Pain When Running: Causes, Treatment and When to See a Physio

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Let’s get you moving again

Book directly — no GP referral needed for most injuries, including ACC claims.

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