Experiencing a burning sensation in the knee when bent can be unsettling. This discomfort may present as tingling, warmth, or a sharp pain. It’s a common symptom that often stems from manageable causes within the knee joint or surrounding tissues.
Understanding Common Causes
Inflammation frequently causes burning knee pain. Conditions like patellar tendinitis, or “jumper’s knee,” involve inflammation of the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone. This irritation can result from repetitive stress, causing a burning sensation in the front of the knee, especially during jumping or running. Quadriceps tendinitis, affecting the tendon above the kneecap, can similarly cause a burning feeling due to inflammation.
Bursitis, another inflammatory condition, occurs when the bursae—small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint—become inflamed. Prepatellar bursitis, at the front of the kneecap, or infrapatellar bursitis, below the kneecap, can lead to a burning sensation, especially after prolonged kneeling or bending. This inflammation irritates surrounding tissues, causing discomfort.
Nerve irritation or compression can also cause burning or neuropathic pain around the knee. The saphenous nerve, for example, can become entrapped, leading to a burning sensation along the inner knee. Nerve issues from the lower back, such as sciatica or a herniated disc, can cause referred pain that radiates down the leg and into the knee.
Overuse or strain on knee tissues frequently results in a burning sensation. Repetitive activities, sudden increases in physical activity, or improper exercise form can strain tendons, ligaments, or cartilage. This mechanical stress can lead to micro-traumas and inflammation, causing localized burning discomfort. Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), common in runners and cyclists, is an example where the iliotibial band, a thick ligament on the outside of the thigh, becomes tight or inflamed and rubs against the knee joint, creating a burning feeling on the outer side of the knee.
Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can contribute to burning knee pain. As the protective cartilage in the knee joint wears away, bones can rub against each other, leading to inflammation and pain. This degenerative process can irritate nerves and tissues within the joint, causing a burning sensation, especially with movement and weight-bearing activities.
At-Home Relief Strategies
Immediate self-care measures can often alleviate burning knee pain. The RICE method—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—is a widely recommended approach for managing acute knee pain and swelling. Resting the knee involves avoiding activities that aggravate the pain, preventing further injury or strain.
Applying ice to the affected area helps reduce inflammation and numb the pain. An ice pack wrapped in a thin towel should be applied for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours, especially after activity, to minimize swelling. Compression, achieved by wrapping the knee with an elastic bandage, helps reduce fluid buildup and provides support, but should not be wrapped too tightly to avoid restricting blood flow. Elevating the injured knee above heart level also helps reduce swelling by promoting fluid drainage.
Over-the-counter medications can also provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) work by blocking enzymes that cause pain and swelling. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is another option for pain relief, though it does not address inflammation. Topical NSAID gels containing diclofenac are also available and can be applied directly to the painful area for targeted relief.
Gentle movement and stretching can help maintain knee flexibility and strengthen supporting muscles without exacerbating pain. Light, non-weight-bearing exercises, such as lying knee bends or hamstring stretches, can improve mobility and reduce stiffness. It is important to listen to your body and stop any exercise that increases pain. Modifying or reducing activities that trigger the burning sensation is also a practical step to allow the knee to heal.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many instances of burning knee pain can be managed with home remedies, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. If the burning sensation persists or worsens despite several days of at-home care, or if it significantly interferes with daily activities or sleep, seeking medical advice is recommended.
Accompanying symptoms such as significant swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee can point to a more serious inflammatory process or infection. The inability to bear weight on the affected leg, a noticeable knee deformity, or a fever alongside knee pain are also red flags that warrant immediate medical attention. If the burning sensation began suddenly after a fall, direct impact, or any other injury, a medical assessment is important to rule out fractures or severe soft tissue damage. Additionally, if the burning is accompanied by new numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot, it could suggest nerve damage requiring prompt evaluation.