{"id":30344,"date":"2026-08-01T06:54:21","date_gmt":"2026-08-01T06:54:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/?p=30344"},"modified":"2026-11-06T15:12:24","modified_gmt":"2026-11-06T15:12:24","slug":"douleur-interne-du-genou-causes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/douleur-interne-du-genou-causes\/","title":{"rendered":"Internal knee pain: what are the causes?"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Internal knee pain: meniscus, ligament or tendons?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A\u00a0<strong>inner knee pain<\/strong>\u00a0It can appear after a twist, a blow, or an increase in physical activity. This area encompasses several structures: meniscus, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and bone. Therefore, the location is a clue, but it is not sufficient on its own to establish a diagnosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where exactly is the internal pain of the knee located?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The inner surface corresponds to the side of the knee facing the other leg. Several anatomical structures are located in this region:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>THE\u00a0<strong>medial meniscus<\/strong>, located inside the joint;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>THE\u00a0<strong>medial collateral ligament<\/strong>, which connects the femur to the tibia;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the tendons of the\u00a0<strong>crow's foot<\/strong>\u00a0;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the cartilage of the internal compartment;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the femur and tibial plateau bone.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The precise location of the pain can help guide the examination. Pain located at the joint line may suggest a meniscus tear. Discomfort slightly lower, on the inner part of the tibia, may correspond to pes anserine irritation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pain that follows the path of the ligament after an impact on the outer side of the knee may suggest a sprain of the medial collateral ligament.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These signs are not enough to make a diagnosis. Swelling or bruising can make the entire area tender.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/diagnostic-douleur-symptomes-genou\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/diagnostic-douleur-symptomes-genou\/\">knee pain assessment questionnaire<\/a>\u00a0It can help to identify important symptoms, but it does not replace a clinical examination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A tear of the medial meniscus following a twisting injury<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The medial meniscus can be injured when the foot remains fixed on the ground while the body pivots. The patient may feel a&nbsp;<strong>inner knee pain<\/strong>&nbsp;immediate, sometimes accompanied by a crackling sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is common to still be able to walk immediately after the injury. The knee may then become more painful, swell, or gradually lose some of its range of motion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Symptoms that may point to a meniscal tear include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>pain on the inner joint line;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>delayed swelling;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>discomfort during rotations; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>clashes;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a feeling of being blocked;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>difficulty in fully straightening the knee.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In people over 40, the meniscus can also gradually weaken. A degenerative tear can become symptomatic after a simple movement, without any dramatic trauma. It can also be associated with early-stage osteoarthritis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An MRI image of a fissure does not automatically explain all the pain. Clinical examination and context remain essential. The page dedicated to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/menisque-et-cartilage\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/menisque-et-cartilage\/\">meniscal and cartilage lesions<\/a>\u00a0allows for the identification of the main associated symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Medial collateral ligament sprain<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The medial collateral ligament, also called the internal collateral ligament, stabilizes the inner part of the knee. It limits excessive movement that can open up this side of the joint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He can be injured by an impact to the outside of the knee or during a sudden change of direction.&nbsp;<strong>inner knee pain<\/strong>&nbsp;then often follows the path of the ligament.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Depending on the severity of the sprain, the patient may present with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>localized pain upon touch;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>swelling on the inner surface;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>discomfort while walking;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>difficulty in changing direction;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a feeling of instability.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Isolated lesions of this ligament generally have good healing potential. Treatment often involves temporary protection, possibly a hinged splint, followed by progressive rehabilitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A severe sprain can, however, be associated with damage to the anterior cruciate ligament or the meniscus. Therefore, marked instability or rapid swelling warrants a specialist examination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pes anserine tendinopathy or bursitis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The pes anserinus is the area where three tendons insert on the inner part of the tibia. A small bursa facilitates their gliding. Repeated stress can irritate the tendons or this bursa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this case, the&nbsp;<strong>inner knee pain<\/strong>&nbsp;It is usually located a few centimeters below the joint line. It can increase:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>during the race;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>on the stairs;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>during a prolonged walk;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>after prolonged sitting;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>to direct pressure on the area.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This irritation can appear after a rapid increase in mileage, repeated hill training, or a sudden change in athletic activity. Certain alignment issues, muscle stiffness, or osteoarthritis can also contribute to the symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pes anserine pain can mimic a meniscal tear. Precise location and movements that reproduce the discomfort help differentiate between the two.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Osteoarthritis of the internal compartment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The inner part of the knee is frequently affected by osteoarthritis. In this context, the&nbsp;<strong>inner knee pain<\/strong>It often appears gradually rather than after a specific accident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The discomfort may be more pronounced when walking, climbing stairs, or standing for extended periods. Stiffness is sometimes present after a period of immobility. The first steps are difficult, then the joint seems to loosen up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In more advanced stages, pain can limit walking distance and disrupt certain daily activities. Progressive deformity of the leg axis may also occur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Weight-bearing radiographs allow for the examination of joint space and lower limb alignment. However, the extent of visible signs does not always correspond to the severity of symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The treatment may involve:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>temporary adaptation of activities;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>muscle strengthening; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>physiotherapy;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>weight management when relevant;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>appropriate medications;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Infiltrations in certain indications.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To better understand the different options available, see the Coulin Medical article dedicated to choosing the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/meilleure-infiltration-genou\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">best knee infiltration depending on the pathology<\/a>&nbsp;provides additional insight. However, an injection should only be chosen after the origin of the pain has been identified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is a fracture or bone injury possible?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After a fall, a shock, or significant exertion, a&nbsp;<strong>inner knee pain<\/strong>&nbsp;It can originate from the bone. A tibial plateau fracture should be considered when weight-bearing is very difficult or swelling is significant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A stress fracture can develop more gradually, particularly after a sudden increase in running or walking. The pain usually becomes more localized and worsens with exertion. It may then persist at rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Several elements require particular attention:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>violent trauma;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>inability to take a few steps;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>very localized bone pain;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>significant swelling;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>rapid worsening of symptoms;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>persistent pain at rest.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The absence of deformity does not rule out a fracture. An X-ray, sometimes supplemented by a CT scan or MRI, may be necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What symptoms require prompt medical attention?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Internal knee pain warrants prompt consultation after trauma when weight-bearing is impossible, the knee is very swollen, or it can no longer be straightened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The main warning signs are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>a visible deformation;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a swelling that appeared rapidly;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a blockage of the joint;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>marked instability;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>very intense pain;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a red and hot joint;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>an associated fever;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a loss of sensation or a cold foot.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rapid swelling may indicate bleeding within the joint and suggest a significant injury. A blockage may be related to a displaced meniscal fragment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In case of worrying symptoms, a quick specialist knee consultation will determine the necessary examinations and the course of action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What actions should be taken in the meantime?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After a recent injury, activity should be stopped. Weight-bearing may be reduced if walking causes significant pain or a feeling of instability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is possible to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>apply cold through a fabric;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>elevate the leg at rest;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>use light and comfortable compression;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>temporarily limit painful activities;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use crutches if weight-bearing is difficult.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Deep tissue massage of a recently injured area, forced stretching, and repeated rotational testing are not recommended. They do not confirm the diagnosis and may worsen symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the internal knee pain developed gradually, a temporary reduction in triggering activities is generally preferable to prolonged immobility. Resumption of activity is then planned according to the cause and the patient's progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What imaging should be performed?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The choice of imaging depends on the suspected structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There&nbsp;<strong>X-ray<\/strong>&nbsp;It is useful for detecting fractures, observing osteoarthritis, and studying the axis of the lower limb. It does not directly show the menisci and ligaments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">L&#039;<strong>MRI<\/strong>&nbsp;allows you to examine:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the menisci;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ligaments;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cartilage; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the tendons; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>subchondral bone.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ultrasound can be used to examine the tendons and bursa of the pes anserinus. CT scans are primarily used to precisely analyze certain bone lesions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not all pain requires an immediate MRI. The examination should answer a specific clinical question. The presentation of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/imagerie-genou\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/imagerie-genou\/\">different knee imaging examinations<\/a>\u00a0explains the role of radiography, MRI, CT scan and ultrasound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Treatment depends on the diagnosis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Two patients suffering from internal knee pain may receive very different treatments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tendon irritation due to overuse generally requires training adjustments and gradual strengthening. A ligament sprain may necessitate temporary protection. A fracture requires specific treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even when a meniscal tear is present on MRI, surgery is not always necessary. Degenerative lesions are usually treated conservatively as a first-line approach. A displaced traumatic lesion with locking presents a different situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Surgery is discussed according to several criteria:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the type and location of the lesion;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>knee stability;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the condition of the cartilage;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>age and activity level;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the impact on daily life;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the effectiveness of treatments already undertaken.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the lesion mainly concerns the internal compartment and is accompanied by an axial defect, certain techniques can aim to preserve the joint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A&nbsp;<strong>inner knee pain<\/strong>&nbsp;It can originate from the medial meniscus, the medial collateral ligament, the pes anserinus tendons, cartilage, or bone. The mechanism of onset, the exact location, and the associated symptoms guide the diagnosis but are not sufficient to confirm it on their own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After a twist or impact, the inability to walk, rapid swelling, locking, or instability warrant prompt evaluation. When symptoms develop gradually, the examination helps distinguish between tendon overload and joint damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Treatment should always be chosen based on the underlying cause. Meniscal pain, ligament sprains, osteoarthritis, and fractures do not require the same approach. The goal is to relieve symptoms while preserving mobility, stability, and the structural integrity of the knee.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Pain on the inside of the knee can have several causes: meniscus tear, ligament damage, osteoarthritis, or overuse injury. Discover the main causes and signs to watch for.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":30348,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[104,97],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-30344","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-comprendre-et-informer","category-menisque"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30344","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=30344"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30344\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":30349,"href":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30344\/revisions\/30349"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/30348"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=30344"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=30344"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=30344"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}