Sharp Knee Pain When Walking? Loose Cartilage Might Be the Cause

If you’ve been feeling sudden, sharp pain in your knee while walking—especially when twisting, bending, or climbing stairs—it’s more than just wear and tear. This kind of pain can be alarming and frustrating, especially when it interferes with your daily activities. One possible cause? Loose cartilage in the knee joint.

At DRHC Dubai, we understand that knee pain can affect every part of your life—from walking to work to enjoying time with family. That’s why it’s important to identify the source of the pain early and explore the best possible treatment options tailored to your needs.

What Is Loose Cartilage in the Knee?

Cartilage is the smooth, rubbery tissue that cushions your joints and helps them move freely. When cartilage becomes damaged or breaks off due to injury, overuse, or degeneration, the loose fragment may float within the joint. This is often referred to as a “loose body” and can cause:

Sharp or catching pain during movement
A popping or locking sensation
Swelling or stiffness in the knee
Limited range of motion

Over time, this condition may worsen and lead to further joint damage if not treated.

Why Does This Happen?

Loose cartilage can result from:

Previous knee injuries (like sports trauma or falls)
Meniscus tears or ligament injuries
Osteoarthritis or age-related joint wear
Repetitive strain or high-impact activity

Even individuals with no prior injury may develop loose cartilage due to joint degeneration.

Diagnosis: How Do You Know It’s Loose Cartilage?

Diagnosis usually involves a clinical evaluation, supported by imaging tests such as:

X-rays to assess bone structure
MRI scans to visualize soft tissues and cartilage
Knee arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to look directly into the joint

At DRHC Dubai, we use advanced imaging and diagnostic tools to accurately identify the root cause of your knee pain.

Treatment Options: What Can Be Done?

The good news is that loose cartilage is treatable—and in many cases, without the need for open surgery. Treatment depends on the severity and your level of discomfort.

1. Conservative (Non-Surgical) Management

For mild symptoms or small cartilage fragments:

Rest and activity modification
Anti-inflammatory medications
Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and stabilize the joint
Joint injections, such as hyaluronic acid or PRP, to reduce inflammation and promote healing

2. Arthroscopic Surgery

If the pain persists or the loose fragment is causing mechanical problems like locking or catching, arthroscopy may be recommended. This is a minimally invasive procedure where small instruments are used to:

Remove loose bodies
Smooth damaged cartilage
Possibly stimulate healing through a technique like microfracture

This type of surgery is usually done as a day procedure with faster recovery times and minimal scarring.

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FAQs: What Patients Often Ask

Is arthroscopy painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort and return home the same day. Pain is usually well-controlled with medications and rest.

How long is the recovery?
Recovery depends on the extent of the damage and your treatment. Some patients resume light activities within a few days, while full recovery may take a few weeks with physical therapy.

What happens if I don’t treat it?
Ignoring loose cartilage can lead to worsening symptoms, joint instability, and possibly the early onset of arthritis.

When to See a Specialist

If you’re experiencing ongoing sharp pain in your knee while walking or bending, it’s time to get it checked. Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve your joint health and avoid long-term damage.

At DRHC Dubai, our orthopedic team is experienced in diagnosing and treating cartilage-related knee problems using the latest minimally invasive techniques. Whether you need physiotherapy, injections, or arthroscopic treatment, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—with clarity, compassion, and care.

Conclusion: You Don’t Have to Live with Knee Pain

Sharp knee pain isn’t something you should ignore or “push through.” Loose cartilage is a real and treatable condition. With the right care, you can return to walking comfortably—and living fully.

If you're experiencing knee pain in Dubai, book a consultation at DRHC Dubai today. Early care makes all the difference.

Call +97142798200 us now to schedule your consultation today!
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