Published: October 31, 2025 10:02 am IST
Do you think knee pain on stairs is normal? Apollo Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Anil Raheja says that this could be an early sign of joint damage which you should not ignore.
If your knees hurt every time you climb the stairs, it may be time to listen to what your body is telling you. This pain isn’t just a random occurrence, it’s your joints trying to tell you something important. Dr. Anil Raheja, Orthopedics and Spine specialist with over 28 years of experience at Apollo Spectra, Karol Bagh, Delhi, shared the real causes of stair-related knee pain and ways to prevent long-term damage in his Instagram post. (Also read: Orthopedic surgeon at Manipal Hospital explains how simple lifestyle changes can prevent early bone loss ,
Why do your knees hurt when climbing stairs?
Dr Anil says, “Do you feel pain in your knees while climbing stairs? And do you try to avoid going down stairs because it causes discomfort? One of the major reasons behind this could be early osteoarthritis or patellofemoral pain.”
Dr. Raheja explains that climbing stairs puts intense pressure on the knees. “When we climb stairs, our knees have about three to four times the body pressure,” he says. “So, if arthritis has already started or the cartilage in your knee is wearing down, this additional load can increase pain and stiffness over time.”
What can you do to reduce knee pain?
While many people dismiss knee pain as a sign of aging or fatigue, Dr. Raheja says early care and strengthening can prevent long-term problems. “The first step is to strengthen your quadriceps and hamstring muscles, as they help support and stabilize the knee joint,” he advises. Do regular stretching and light exercises to improve flexibility and reduce joint stress.
He warns that ignoring pain or swelling can make it harder to treat later. “If you have persistent pain in your knees, especially while climbing stairs or standing for long periods of time, consult a doctor,” says Dr. Raheja. “Getting your knees checked at the right time is a smart thing to do, early diagnosis is the best preparation for long-term joint health.”
Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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