Pain Behind the Knee– Symptoms & Treatment in Bromley

Key Points

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Pain behind the knee (posterior knee pain) can result from ligament sprains, muscle strains, tendon injuries, joint irritation, or cyst formation.

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It is common in athletes, runners, and those with underlying joint conditions.

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Symptoms vary depending on the cause but may include swelling, stiffness, sharp pain, or a feeling of tightness at the back of the knee.

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At Bromley Sports Injury Clinic, we provide osteopathic care, ultrasound imaging, blood tests, and tailored rehabilitation to identify the cause and restore movement.

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What is Pain Behind the Knee?

The back of the knee is a complex area involving:

• Hamstring tendons (can be strained or inflamed → see Muscle Strain)

• Ligaments (posterior cruciate ligament, collateral ligaments → see Ligament Sprains)

• Tendons (popliteus, gastrocnemius → see future Tendon Injury page)

• Bursa or cysts (e.g. Baker’s cyst causing swelling)

• Joint capsule and cartilage (arthritis, meniscus tears)

Posterior knee pain can arise suddenly from trauma, or gradually from overuse or degenerative changes.

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Symptoms of Pain Behind the Knee

• Dull ache or sharp pain when bending or straightening the knee

• Swelling or a “lump” sensation (possible Baker’s cyst)

• Pain climbing stairs, running, or after sitting

• Stiffness and restricted movement

• Instability if ligaments are involved

• Radiating pain into the calf or thigh

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Causes & Risk Factors

• Muscle strain (hamstrings, calf)

• Ligament sprain or tear (PCL or collateral ligaments)

• Tendon injury or inflammation (gastrocnemius, popliteus)

• Baker’s cyst (fluid build-up behind the knee)

• Meniscus tear (cartilage injury)

• Arthritis or joint degeneration

• Overuse injuries from running, cycling, or jumping sports

• Poor biomechanics or muscle imbalance

👉 Related: Muscle Strains | Ligament Sprains | Osteoarthritis  

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Diagnosis of Pain Behind the Knee

At Bromley Sports Injury Clinic, diagnosis may include:

• Osteopathic assessment – movement analysis, palpation, and functional tests

• Ultrasound imaging – to identify cysts, fluid, or soft tissue injury (muscle/tendon/ligament)

• Blood tests – to check for systemic inflammation, arthritis markers, vitamin D or metabolic issues

• Referral – for MRI if ligament tears, meniscus damage, or unexplained swelling is suspected

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Self-Help for Pain Behind the Knee

• Rest and avoid aggravating activities temporarily

• Apply ice for 10–15 minutes to reduce swelling

• Gentle stretching of hamstrings and calves

• Use supportive footwear to reduce joint stress

• Low-impact exercise (cycling, swimming) to maintain mobility

• Avoid prolonged sitting with the knee bent tightly

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Treatment Options at Bromley Sports Injury Clinic

✅ Osteopathic care – joint mobilisation, soft tissue therapy, swelling management
✅ Exercise rehabilitation – targeted strengthening for hamstrings, calves, and hip stabilisers
✅ Sports massage – release of tension in hamstrings and calf muscles
✅ Ultrasound imaging – to confirm diagnosis and monitor progress
✅ Blood testing – to check for arthritis markers, vitamin D, or systemic contributors
✅ Referral pathways – where advanced imaging or surgical review may be required

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Prevention

• Warm up before activity and stretch regularly

• Strengthen hamstrings, quads, and calves to support the knee

• Avoid overtraining or sudden increases in load

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce knee strain

• Address foot mechanics to prevent overload (link to Plantar Fasciitis)

• Build in recovery and mobility work alongside training

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FAQs – Pain Behind the Knee

Q: Is pain behind the knee always a cyst?
No. While Baker’s cysts are a common cause, muscle, ligament, tendon, and cartilage injuries can all produce posterior knee pain.

Q: Do I need a scan?
Ultrasound can detect cysts, swelling, or soft tissue injuries. MRI may be needed for meniscus tears or deep ligament injury.

Q: Can I exercise with posterior knee pain?
Low-impact activity is often possible, but avoid high-intensity sports until the cause is diagnosed.

Q: Why are blood tests useful?
They can detect arthritis, inflammation, or deficiencies that affect recovery.

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Book Your Appointment

Don’t ignore pain behind the knee. Book your knee assessment in Bromley today for a clear diagnosis, tailored treatment, and long-term prevention.

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📍 Bromley Sports Injury Clinic | Same-week appointments available