Why Does My Knee Hurt When I Walk? | San Antonio Orthopedic Specialist

April 29, 2026

Why Does My Knee Hurt When I Walk?

Knee pain when walking is one of the most common reasons patients seek care from an orthopedic specialist. While some cases are mild and temporary, others may indicate an underlying joint condition that requires evaluation.


At MD Spine Care Orthopaedics in San Antonio, we evaluate knee pain to identify the root cause and recommend appropriate treatment options based on each patient’s condition.


Common Causes of Knee Pain When Walking

Several conditions may cause knee pain during walking or activity.

Some of the most common include:


Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of knee pain, especially in adults over 40. It occurs when the cartilage in the joint gradually wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

Meniscus Tear

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that cushions the knee joint. A tear can occur from sudden twisting movements or gradual wear and tear. This may cause pain, swelling, or a catching sensation when walking.

Ligament Injuries

Injuries to ligaments such as the ACL or MCL can cause instability and pain in the knee. These injuries are often related to sports or sudden movements.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Tendonitis occurs when the tendons around the knee become inflamed due to overuse. This is common in runners or individuals who engage in repetitive motion activities.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis occurs when the tendons around the knee become inflamed due to overuse. This is common in runners or individuals who engage in repetitive motion activities.


When Is Knee Pain a Concern?

While mild knee discomfort may improve with rest, certain symptoms may indicate a more serious condition.


You should consider seeing an orthopedic specialist in San Antonio if you experience:


  • Knee pain lasting more than several weeks
  • Swelling or stiffness in the joint
  • Pain that worsens with activity
  • Instability or the feeling that your knee may “give out”
  • Difficulty walking or bearing weight



How Knee Pain Is Diagnosed

A proper diagnosis begins with a comprehensive evaluation.

Your orthopedic specialist may:


  • Review your symptoms and medical history
  • Perform a physical examination
  • Assess joint stability and range of motion
  • Recommend imaging such as X-rays or MRI if needed


This helps identify whether the pain is related to cartilage damage, ligament injury, inflammation, or another underlying issue.


Treatment Options for Knee Pain

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition.


Many patients improve with non-surgical care, including:

  • Physical therapy
  • Activity modification
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Joint injections


If conservative treatment does not provide relief, further interventions may be considered based on your condition.


When to See an Orthopedic Specialist in San Antonio

If knee pain continues to interfere with your daily activities, an evaluation can help determine the cause and guide appropriate treatment.


Early diagnosis can help prevent worsening symptoms and improve long-term joint health.


Schedule a Knee Evaluation in San Antonio

If you are experiencing knee pain when walking, the team at MD Spine Care Orthopaedics in San Antonio can help.


Schedule a consultation to receive a personalized evaluation and treatment plan tailored to your needs.



  • Why does my knee hurt when I walk but not when resting?

    This may be due to conditions such as cartilage wear, tendonitis, or meniscus injury that are aggravated by movement.

  • Can knee pain go away on its own?

    Mild cases may improve with rest, but persistent pain should be evaluated to rule out structural issues.


  • What is the most common cause of knee pain?

    Osteoarthritis and overuse injuries are among the most common causes.

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