Aching pain above the knee is a common issue that can result from various conditions such as tendonitis, muscle strain, or osteoarthritis. This type of pain may be caused by overuse, injury, or degeneration of the tissues around the knee. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may affect movement and daily activities. Understanding the underlying cause of the pain is crucial for effective treatment and relief. At Innovative Healthcare Centers, we offer comprehensive care to help diagnose and treat aching pain above the knee.

The Area Above the Knee
The area above the knee includes various structures, such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, and the patella (kneecap). The quadriceps muscle group, located at the front of the thigh, plays a key role in movement and stability. Tendons connect these muscles to the knee joint, providing support for bending and straightening the leg.
Pain above the knee can originate from different structures in this area, such as the quadriceps tendons, muscles, or ligaments.
Common Causes of Aching Pain Above the Knee
Several factors can contribute to aching pain above the knee. Below are some of the most common causes:
1. Quadriceps Tendonitis
Quadriceps tendonitis occurs when the tendon that connects the quadriceps muscle to the kneecap becomes inflamed due to overuse or repetitive motion. Athletes, particularly those involved in running, jumping, or cycling, are at risk for this condition. The pain is usually felt above the kneecap and may worsen with activity.
2. Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee)
Patellar tendonitis is inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. While this condition often causes pain directly below the knee, some individuals may feel aching pain above the knee as well. Repetitive strain from jumping or sudden movements can contribute to the development of patellar tendonitis.
3. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition, occurs when the cartilage in the knee wears down over time. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in and around the knee joint. Although osteoarthritis typically affects the entire knee, individuals may experience aching pain above the knee as the surrounding structures become strained from the lack of cartilage protection.
4. Muscle Strain or Overuse
Aching pain above the knee can also result from muscle strain or overuse. The quadriceps muscles are responsible for straightening the knee, and overuse from activities such as running, hiking, or squatting can lead to muscle fatigue and discomfort. For more information on pain when straightening your knee check out this article. This pain is typically localized to the front of the thigh above the knee.


Symptoms of Aching Pain Above the Knee
Aching pain above the knee can vary in intensity, but there are common symptoms associated with the condition. These may include:
- Tenderness: The area above the knee may feel tender to the touch, particularly around the quadriceps tendon or muscles.
- Swelling: Swelling in the area above the knee is a common sign of inflammation, especially if the aching pain is associated with tendonitis or bursitis.
- Stiffness: People experiencing aching pain above the knee may notice difficulty bending or straightening the leg fully, leading to stiffness in the knee joint.
- Weakness: Muscle weakness may accompany the aching pain, especially if it is caused by muscle strain or overuse.
- Limited Range of Motion: Aching pain above the knee may make it difficult to perform certain movements, such as climbing stairs, squatting, or running. Sharp pain in the knee often occurs suddenly and can be intense, typically resulting from injuries like ligament sprains, meniscus tears, or cartilage damage.
Preventing Aching Pain Above the Knee
Preventing aching pain above the knee involves maintaining proper muscle strength and flexibility, using proper technique during physical activities, and avoiding overuse of the knee joint. Here are some tips for preventing knee pain:
- Warm up before exercise: Perform gentle stretches and warm-up exercises before engaging in physical activity to prepare your muscles and joints.
- Strengthen surrounding muscles: Focus on strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles to reduce strain on the knee joint.
- Use proper form: Pay attention to posture and technique when engaging in sports or activities like running, cycling, or weightlifting.
- Avoid overtraining: Avoid excessive repetitive movements that strain the knee joint, and give your body time to rest and recover between workouts.


Get Started Today
Aching pain above the knee can stem from various causes, including tendonitis, bursitis, muscle strain, and osteoarthritis. Understanding the underlying cause of the pain is essential for choosing the right treatment approach. At Innovative Healthcare Centers, we are committed to helping patients find relief through a combination of physical therapy, pain management, and personalized care. If you are experiencing aching pain above your knee, contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore the treatment options available to you.