See an orthopaedic specialist if knee pain lasts more than 2 weeks, prevents weight-bearing, causes a deformity, follows an injury with a 'pop', or wakes you from sleep. Early diagnosis often means simpler treatment.
Pain you can manage at home
Mild aches after unusual activity, transient stiffness after sitting, or minor swelling that settles with rest, ice and an anti-inflammatory in 3–7 days are usually self-limiting.
Red flags that need a specialist
Inability to bear weight, locking or giving way, hot swollen joint, deformity, fever with knee pain, or pain that disturbs sleep.
An injury followed by an audible 'pop' often signals a ligament or meniscus tear.
What the consultation involves
A focused history, clinical examination, weight-bearing X-rays, and MRI if soft-tissue injury is suspected.
Most knee problems have well-defined treatment pathways once diagnosed accurately.