Knee Pain When Squatting or Straightening: Common Causes & What You Can Do

Experiencing knee pain when squatting or straightening your leg is a common issue that affects people of all ages, from athletes to older adults. Whether it’s a sharp discomfort, a pulling sensation, or a dull ache that worsens with movement, the cause of your knee pain is often tied to how the knee joint and surrounding structures are functioning.

Why Does Your Knee Hurt When Squatting?

One of the most common reasons for knee pain when squatting is patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as runner’s knee. This condition occurs when the kneecap does not track properly along the femur, causing irritation and pain during movements that involve bending the knee. Other causes include meniscus tears, ligament injuries, and quadriceps or hamstring imbalances that put strain on the joint. In some cases, repetitive stress from exercise or poor biomechanics can lead to inflammation in the surrounding tendons and soft tissues.

Understanding Pain in the Back of the Knee

Pain in the back of the knee, especially during movements like straightening the leg or rising from a squat, may indicate a Baker’s cyst or hamstring tendon strain. A Baker’s cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that develops behind the knee, often as a result of joint inflammation. It can make it difficult to fully straighten the leg and may feel tight or swollen. Alternatively, tendon or ligament injuries, especially after a fall, sports activity, or overuse, can also lead to posterior knee pain.

How Silver Pain Centre Can Help

For accurate diagnosis, our clinic offers ultrasound-guided and fluoroscopy-guided assessments, which allow us to precisely visualize the structures inside the joint. These tools are especially helpful in identifying soft tissue injuries, cysts, and inflammation that may not be apparent during a physical exam alone.

Treatment Options for Long-Term Relief

The good news is that many of these conditions can be effectively managed with the right approach. Treatments may include physical therapy, joint injections, bracing, or regenerative medicine options. At Silver Pain Centre, we create custom treatment plans tailored to each patient’s condition and goals. Most of our services are covered by OHIP, and we offer both physician and self-referral pathways for faster access to care.

Trusted Chronic Pain Care in Toronto

Our modern 20,000 sq. ft. facility in North Toronto provides a welcoming and efficient environment with free parking, shorter wait times, and access to leading-edge pain management techniques. If you’ve been living with pain in the back of the knee or discomfort during squatting and straightening, you don’t have to keep pushing through it. Our goal is to help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life.

To schedule an appointment,

📞 Call: (416) 512-6407

📍 Visit Us: 4646 Dufferin Street, Unit #9, Toronto, ON M3H 5S4

You can also complete a self-referral form online. Let us help you take the first step toward long-term relief.