Areas of Expertise

Meniscal Injury

Knee Tendinitis

What is knee tendinitis?
Knee tendinitis, most commonly patellar tendinitis (jumper’s knee), is inflammation or irritation of a tendon around the knee, usually caused by overuse or repetitive strain124.

What causes tendinitis around the knee?

Repetitive activities like jumping, running, or squatting
Sudden increase in activity intensity or frequency
Tight or imbalanced leg muscles
Poor footwear or hard playing surfaces
Chronic illnesses that affect tendon health (e.g., diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis)129

What are the symptoms?

Pain at the front of the knee, often just below the kneecap
Swelling or tenderness in the affected area
Stiffness and difficulty moving the knee
Pain that worsens with activity, especially when jumping, running, or climbing stairs
Sometimes a grating or crackling sensation when moving the knee1247

How is knee tendinitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on a physical exam and discussion of your symptoms. Imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI may be used to rule out other conditions or assess tendon damage5.

How is knee tendinitis treated?

Rest and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms
Ice to reduce pain and swelling
Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen)
Physical therapy with stretching and strengthening exercises
Use of patellar straps or braces for support
Surgery is rarely needed and reserved for severe or persistent cases1210

How long does recovery take?
Most people recover with conservative treatment, but full recovery can take several months, especially if the injury is severe or has been present for a long time10.

When should I see a doctor?

If your pain does not improve with rest and home care
If pain interferes with daily activities
If there is significant swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee
If you heard a pop or snap and cannot move the knee14

Can I continue to exercise with knee tendinitis?
You should avoid activities that trigger or worsen your symptoms. Your healthcare provider or physiotherapist can suggest safe exercises and guide your return to activity210.

What can I do to prevent knee tendinitis?

Warm up and stretch before activity
Strengthen leg muscles to improve balance
Use proper footwear
Gradually increase activity levels
Address any muscle imbalances or technique issues

Platellofemoral Joint Instability

What is patellofemoral joint instability?
Patellofemoral instability refers to the kneecap (patella) moving out of its normal position in the groove at the end of the thigh bone (femur), either partially (subluxation) or completely (dislocation)148.

What are the symptoms of patellofemoral instability?

A sensation that the kneecap is moving out of place or has shifted
Pain at the front of the knee, especially during activities like twisting, kneeling, climbing stairs, or deep knee bending
Swelling, stiffness, or a feeling of the knee “giving way” or buckling
Clicking, crunching, or locking sensations in the knee
Sometimes a visible deformity if the kneecap is dislocated148.

What causes patellofemoral instability?

Traumatic injuries (such as a direct blow or twist)
Anatomical factors (such as shallow groove, high-riding kneecap, or loose ligaments)
Weakness or imbalance in the muscles around the hip and knee
Previous dislocations or injuries to the knee168.

How is patellofemoral instability diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Imaging such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be used to assess bone alignment, ligament integrity, and cartilage surfaces1468.

What are the treatment options?

Non-surgical:
- Physiotherapy to strengthen the quadriceps, hip, and buttock muscles
- Orthotics or braces to help with alignment and prevent dislocation
- Activity modification and pain management
Surgical:
- Surgery is considered for recurrent dislocations, significant bone or cartilage injury, or if non-surgical treatments fail
- Surgical options may include reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) or other procedures to correct alignment1478.

Can physical therapy help?
Yes, physiotherapy is often the first-line treatment and focuses on strengthening the muscles that stabilize the kneecap and correcting any alignment issues1457.

When is surgery necessary?
Surgery is usually reserved for:

Patients with repeated dislocations that affect daily life
Cases where there is a fracture or significant cartilage injury
When conservative treatments have not been successful 1478.

What is the risk of long-term problems?
Chronic instability can lead to cartilage damage and increase the risk of developing arthritis in the knee if not properly managed 67.

Are there activities I should avoid?
Activities that put excessive stress on the knee, such as deep squatting, twisting, or high-impact sports, may need to be limited, especially during recovery7.

GTPS or Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome

What is Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)?
GTPS is a condition causing pain on the outer side of the hip, centered over the greater trochanter-the prominent bony part at the top of your thighbone15. It was previously called trochanteric bursitis, but current understanding recognizes that pain often comes from small injuries to the tendons or muscles, not just inflammation of the bursa35.

What causes GTPS?
Common causes include:

Overuse or repetitive stress (e.g., increased walking, running, or standing)
Sudden changes in activity level
Direct injury such as a fall on the hip
Muscle weakness or imbalance
Biomechanical issues (e.g., leg length difference, poor foot posture)
Obesity or being out of shape
Recovery after hip or leg surgery
Arthritis in the hip, knee, or foot12357

What are the symptoms?

Pain on the outside of the hip, sometimes radiating down the thigh
Pain that may be sharp at first, then becomes more of a deep ache
Pain worsened by lying on the affected side, walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from a chair
Limping, joint stiffness, swelling, or a catching/clicking sensation135

How is GTPS diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made by a clinician based on your symptoms and a physical examination. Imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI) may be used if the diagnosis is unclear or to rule out other conditions568.

Is GTPS the same as trochanteric bursitis?
GTPS was previously called trochanteric bursitis, but research shows most cases are due to tendon or muscle injury rather than just bursa inflammation. The term GTPS is now preferred35.

How common is GTPS?
It affects about 1 in 300 people each year, most commonly women aged 40–60, but can also occur in younger active individuals such as runners or dancers57.

What are the treatment options?

Rest and activity modification
Physical therapy focusing on strengthening and flexibility
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Shockwave therapy or corticosteroid injections for persistent cases
Surgery is rarely needed and reserved for severe, non-responsive cases68

How long does it take to get better?
GTPS often improves with conservative treatment over weeks to months, but some cases can persist longer, especially if underlying causes are not addressed56.

When should I seek medical advice?
If your pain is severe, not improving with self-care, interferes with sleep or daily activities, or if you develop fever or redness (which may suggest infection), see a healthcare professional15.

Can GTPS come back?
Yes, recurrence is possible, especially if risk factors such as overuse, muscle weakness, or biomechanical problems are not addressed37.

Knee Arthritis

What is knee arthritis and what causes it?
Knee arthritis, most commonly osteoarthritis, is a degenerative joint disease where the cartilage in the knee wears down over time. Causes include aging, previous knee injuries, obesity, genetics, and other forms of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis or gout1235.

What are the symptoms of knee arthritis?
Common symptoms include knee pain, stiffness (especially after periods of inactivity), swelling, reduced range of motion, weakness, and sometimes a grinding or cracking sensation (crepitus) in the joint2367.

Can young people get knee arthritis?
Yes, although more common with age, young people can develop knee arthritis, especially after significant knee injuries or due to chronic inflammatory conditions2.

Why does my knee make cracking or popping sounds?
Cracking or popping sounds (crepitus) are often due to rough surfaces in the joint from cartilage wear. This is common and not necessarily a sign of worsening damage57.

Why is my knee swollen?
Swelling occurs because arthritic knees often produce extra synovial fluid, leading to a feeling of tightness. Swelling can worsen after activity or if the joint lining becomes inflamed7.

What can I do to manage my knee pain?
Management includes:

Modifying activities to avoid aggravating the knee
Using ice for short-term pain relief
Taking painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications as advised
Engaging in physical therapy to strengthen muscles around the knee
Maintaining a healthy weight36

Do I need surgery for knee arthritis?
Not everyone needs surgery. Surgery is considered for severe cases where pain and disability persist despite conservative treatments. Many patients benefit from physical therapy and other non-surgical treatments before considering surgery26.

Can physical therapy help with knee arthritis?
Yes, physical therapy can improve knee strength, flexibility, and function, and may reduce the need for surgery6.

Will arthritis in one knee spread to the other?
Having arthritis in one knee does not guarantee it will develop in the other, though it is possible, especially in cases of rheumatoid arthritis5.

Why is my knee becoming more bow-legged or knock-kneed?
This is due to uneven cartilage and bone wear on one side of the knee, leading to joint deformity5.

What activities should I avoid or modify?
Avoid high-impact activities and prolonged kneeling or squatting. Focus on low-impact exercises and use supportive devices if needed23.

How can I prevent knee arthritis or slow its progression?
While aging cannot be prevented, you can reduce risk by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding knee overuse, and strengthening thigh muscles through regular exercise2.

When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if knee pain persists, swelling does not improve, or if you experience severe pain, instability, or loss of function6.

ACL Injury

What can I do to manage my knee pain?
Management includes:

Modifying activities to avoid aggravating the knee
Using ice for short-term pain relief
Taking painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications as advised
Engaging in physical therapy to strengthen muscles around the knee
Maintaining a healthy weight36

Can physical therapy help with knee arthritis?
Yes, physical therapy can improve knee strength, flexibility, and function, and may reduce the need for surgery6.

Will arthritis in one knee spread to the other?
Having arthritis in one knee does not guarantee it will develop in the other, though it is possible, especially in cases of rheumatoid arthritis5.

Why is my knee becoming more bow-legged or knock-kneed?
This is due to uneven cartilage and bone wear on one side of the knee, leading to joint deformity5.

What activities should I avoid or modify?
Avoid high-impact activities and prolonged kneeling or squatting. Focus on low-impact exercises and use supportive devices if needed23.

When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if knee pain persists, swelling does not improve, or if you experience severe pain, instability, or loss of function6.

Anterior Knee Pain

Patients with anterior knee pain often have a range of questions regarding their symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and management. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions, based on clinical guidelines and patient education resources.

What is anterior knee pain?
Anterior knee pain refers to pain at the front of the knee, around or behind the kneecap (patella)123. It is a common complaint, especially among adolescents, athletes, and people who are physically active35.

What causes anterior knee pain?
There are multiple possible causes, including:

Overuse injuries (e.g., patellofemoral pain syndrome, patellar tendinopathy)125
Structural or alignment issues (e.g., patellar maltracking, flat feet, hypermobility)125
Acute injuries (e.g., direct blow to the knee, ligament injuries such as ACL tears)15
Specific conditions like Osgood-Schlatter disease or Sinding-Larsen-Johansson disease in adolescents15
Less commonly, bursitis or partial dislocation of the kneecap15

What are the typical symptoms?
Symptoms can vary but often include:

Pain in the front or around the kneecap, sometimes both knees125
Pain worsened by activities such as squatting, kneeling, climbing stairs, running (especially downhill), or after sitting for long periods (“movie sign”)125
Swelling, clicking, or a feeling of instability (“giving way”)125
In children, tenderness and swelling just below the kneecap15

How is anterior knee pain diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on symptoms and physical examination5. Imaging (X-rays or MRI) may be used if there is a history of trauma, persistent symptoms, or suspicion of another underlying condition5.

How is anterior knee pain treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause but often includes:

Activity modification (avoiding aggravating activities)15
Physiotherapy focusing on strengthening the quadriceps, hip, and core muscles15
Weight management if overweight136
Proper footwear or foot orthoses5
Simple pain relief (e.g., paracetamol or NSAIDs, though evidence for NSAIDs is limited)5
Surgery is rarely needed and reserved for cases not responding to conservative treatment5

How long does it take to get better?
Recovery time varies. With appropriate management, many people improve within weeks to months, but some cases can persist longer, especially if underlying contributing factors are not addressed 7.

Should I see a doctor?
You should seek medical advice if:

You cannot put weight on the knee
There is severe pain, swelling, or redness
The knee gives way, locks, or you cannot move it
There are signs of infection (fever, hot/red/swollen knee) 1

Can my weight affect my knee pain?
Yes, being overweight increases stress on the knees and can contribute to pain. Weight loss can help reduce symptoms 1,3,6.

Are there any special diets or supplements that help?
No specific diet or supplement has been proven to prevent or treat anterior knee pain, but a healthy, balanced diet is recommended, especially if weight loss is needed 3.

Is exercise safe?
Gentle, targeted exercises to strengthen the knee and surrounding muscles are usually recommended and can help with recovery1,5,7. High-impact activities should be avoided until pain improves.

When can I return to sports or normal activities?
Return to activity should be gradual, based on pain levels and functional improvement. A physiotherapist can help guide safe progression1,5,7.

Summary Table of Common FAQs

Question

Short Answer

What is anterior knee pain?

Pain at the front of the knee, often around or behind the kneecap

What causes it?

Overuse, alignment issues, injuries, specific conditions

What are the symptoms?

Pain with activity, swelling, clicking, instability

How is it diagnosed?

Clinical exam, sometimes imaging

How is it treated?

Rest, physiotherapy, pain relief, weight management, rarely surgery

How long to recover?

Weeks to months, varies by cause and management

When to see a doctor?

Severe pain, swelling, inability to bear weight, signs of infection

Does weight matter?

Yes, excess weight increases knee pain risk

Special diets or supplements?

No proven benefit, but healthy diet recommended

Is exercise safe?

Yes, with guidance, avoid aggravating activities

When can I return to sports?

Gradually, as pain and function allow

These questions reflect the most common concerns and discussions during clinical consultations for anterior knee pain 1,2,3,5,6,7.

Hip Arthritis

What is hip arthritis and what causes it?
Hip arthritis is a condition where the cartilage in the hip joint wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The most common type is osteoarthritis, caused by age-related wear and tear, but other forms include rheumatoid, psoriatic, and post-traumatic arthritis23.

What are the symptoms of hip arthritis?

Pain in or near the hip joint, sometimes radiating to the groin, thigh, or buttocks
Stiffness, especially after rest or in the morning
Audible clicking or grating sounds when moving the hip
Weakness and reduced range of motion
Difficulty with activities like walking, getting out of a chair, or climbing stairs24.

How is hip arthritis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on your symptoms, a physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays, which show joint space narrowing or bone spurs. Blood tests may be used to rule out inflammatory types of arthritis239.

What are the treatment options for hip arthritis?

Activity and lifestyle modifications (avoiding aggravating activities, weight loss)256
Physical therapy and specific exercises to strengthen hip muscles and maintain mobility127
Medications such as acetaminophen, NSAIDs, or in some cases, prescription drugs68
Use of walking aids like canes to reduce stress on the joint5
Injections (e.g., corticosteroids) for symptom relief in some cases7
Surgery, such as hip replacement, is considered if conservative treatments fail and symptoms are severe23510

Is there a cure for hip arthritis?
There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but symptoms can be managed effectively with a combination of treatments. Surgery can provide long-term relief when other measures are insufficient239.

How can I manage hip arthritis at home?

Stay active with low-impact activities (e.g., swimming, cycling)
Use heat pads for pain relief
Avoid low seating, which can aggravate symptoms; consider using cushions or seat raisers12
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress56

When should I consider surgery?
Surgery, such as hip replacement, is typically considered when pain and disability significantly affect your quality of life and non-surgical treatments no longer help235.

Will hip arthritis get worse over time?
Hip arthritis is usually progressive, but the rate varies. Early intervention and lifestyle changes can help slow progression and manage symptoms23.

Are there risks to delaying treatment?
Delaying treatment can lead to worsening pain, decreased mobility, and muscle weakness, making future recovery more difficult35.

Can young people get hip arthritis?
Yes, especially after injury or due to inflammatory conditions, but it is more common with increasing age23.

What is a meniscus tear?
A meniscus tear is a common knee injury involving damage to the cartilage between the bones in the knee joint. The meniscus acts as a cushion and stabilizer for the knee21.

How does a meniscus tear happen?
It usually occurs from twisting the knee during sports or physical activities, but can also result from minor injuries like twisting while standing up21.

What are the symptoms of a meniscus tear?

Knee pain or tenderness
Swelling or stiffness, sometimes developing hours or days after injury
Difficulty bending, straightening, or moving the knee
The knee may give way or feel unstable
A crunching, clicking, or locking sensation in the knee276

Can I still walk with a torn meniscus?
Many people can walk immediately after the injury, but swelling and stiffness may develop later, making walking more difficult without support17.

How is a meniscus tear diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a physical examination and often imaging tests.

Doctors may perform specific knee movement tests (like the McMurray test) to check for pain or clicking75.
X-rays can rule out bone injuries, while MRI is the best imaging test to confirm a meniscus tear734.

Can a meniscus tear heal on its own?
Small tears can sometimes heal with rest and self-care. Larger or more severe tears may require medical treatment or surgery124.

What is the treatment for a meniscus tear?

Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) in the initial days478
Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen12
Physiotherapy to strengthen the knee and restore movement12
Surgery (arthroscopy) may be needed for large tears or if conservative treatments fail123

Do I need surgery for a meniscus tear?
Not always. Many tears heal with non-surgical treatments. Surgery is considered if the tear is large, symptoms persist, or the knee locks or gives way repeatedly124.

How long does it take to recover from a meniscus tear?
Recovery varies depending on the severity and treatment. Minor tears may heal in weeks, while recovery after surgery can take at least 6 weeks or longer with physiotherapy1.

What happens if a meniscus tear is left untreated?
Untreated tears can lead to ongoing pain, instability, and increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the knee4.

When should I see a doctor for a meniscus tear?
Seek medical advice if:

Knee pain stops you from normal activities
Swelling, stiffness, or instability persists
You cannot walk, put weight on the knee, or the knee changes shape after injury

PJI

GTPS

AKP

Areas of Expertise

Meniscal Injury

Knee Tendinitis

Platellofemoral Joint Instability

GTPS or Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome

Knee Arthritis

ACL Injury

Anterior Knee Pain

Hip Arthritis

Mohit Bansal offers consultations for the following treatments

Practice Locations

Chelsfield Parks Hospital, Bucks Cross Road, Chelsfield, Orpington,
BR6 7RG

Spire London East Hospital, Roding Lane South, Woodford, Woodford Green, IG4 55PZ

Areas of Expertise

Meniscal Injury

Knee Tendinitis

Platellofemoral Joint Instability

GTPS or Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome

Knee Arthritis

ACL Injury

Anterior Knee Pain

Hip Arthritis

Mohit Bansal offers consultations for the following treatments

Practice Locations

Chelsfield Parks Hospital, Bucks Cross Road, Chelsfield, Orpington, BR6 7RG

Spire London East Hospital, Roding Lane South, Woodford, Woodford Green, IG4 55PZ

Chelsfield Parks Hospital, Bucks Cross Road, Chelsfield, Orpington,
BR6 7RG