Whether your child just started a new sport, you’re getting back into your regular workout routine, or you’re an experienced athlete, knee pain after sports can be frustrating. Sometimes soreness is simply the result of putting more stress on your muscles and joints than usual. In other cases, knee pain can be a sign of an injury that needs medical attention. The knee absorbs a significant amount of force during activities such as running, jumping, squatting, and changing direction. So, how can you tell the difference between normal post-exercise soreness and an injury? Understanding the common causes of knee pain and knowing which warning signs to watch for can help you determine when it’s time to seek treatment.
For same-day sports injury treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale. Our center is open 7 days a week, accepting walk-in patients every day. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, simply book below.
What Causes Knee Pain After Sports?
Knee pain can develop for many different reasons. The location and type of pain, as well as when it occurs, can provide clues about what’s causing it.
Overuse and Repetitive Stress
One of the most common causes of knee pain in athletes is overuse. Repeated running, jumping, squatting, or other high-impact movements can place stress on the knee over time. Overuse injuries may develop gradually rather than from one specific incident. You may notice mild soreness after practice that becomes more noticeable as you continue training. Activities that involve frequent running and jumping (volleyball, basketball, soccer, track) can put a lot of repetitive stress on the knees.
Sprains and Strains
A sudden change in direction, awkward landing, or collision can cause a sprain or strain. A sprain involves an injury to a ligament, which connect bones to one another. A strain affects a muscle or tendon. Depending on the severity of the injury, you may experience pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, reduced range of motion, or difficulty putting weight on the leg.
Runner’s Knee
Patellofemoral pain syndrome, commonly known as runner’s knee, causes pain around or behind the kneecap. Despite its name, it can affect people participating in many different sports. Pain may become worse when running, jumping, squatting, climbing stairs, sitting for long periods, or when repeatedly bending the knee. Runner’s knee can be associated with overuse, changes in training, muscle weakness, or issues with how the kneecap moves during activity.
Meniscus Injuries
The menisci are pieces of cartilage that act as cushions between the bones of the knee. A forceful twisting motion can tear a meniscus. A meniscus injury may cause pain, swelling, stiffness, difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee, and a locking sensation. Some meniscus injuries happen during sports, while others can develop gradually from repeated stress.
What Should You Do For Knee Pain After Sports?
If your knee hurts after sports, but you don’t have severe symptoms, start by giving the joint a break. Depending on the type and severity of the injury, helpful measures may include:
- Taking a temporary break from the activity that causes pain
- Applying ice wrapped in a cloth for short periods of time
- Elevating the leg if swelling is persistent
- Using compression if appropriate
- Gradually returning to activity once symptoms improve
Avoid immediately returning to intense activity simply because the pain has temporarily decreased. If you’re unsure whether an injury is safe to treat at home, a healthcare provider can evaluate your knee and provide guidance on activity and treatment.
When Should You Seek Treatment For Knee Pain?
Not every episode of knee pain requires medical attention, but certain symptoms should be evaluated. Consider visiting an urgent care center if your knee pain:
- Doesn’t improve with rest
- Gets progressively worse
- Is accompanied by significant swelling
- Makes it difficult to walk or bear weight
- Occurs after a fall, collision, or injury
- Limits your range of motion
- Is accompanied by significant bruising
You should also seek evaluation if you repeatedly develop knee pain after sports, even if it goes away between activities. Recurring pain can be a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Get Walk-In Sports Injury Orthopedic Care at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale
Knee pain after sports can range from temporary soreness to an injury involving the ligaments, tendons, cartilage, or other structures within the joint. While mild discomfort may improve with rest and home care, persistent pain and swelling should not be ignored. Getting an injury evaluated can help identify the cause of your symptoms and determine whether you need additional imaging or care. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale for guidance and treatment. Our providers specialize in treating a wide range of injuries. The clinic is open 7 days a week and operates on a walk-in basis, just stop by at your convenience! We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the injuries we treat, or other services we provide, please contact our medical team directly at (303) 935-1000.