Muscle · Leg · Quadriceps
Front thigh pain
Common at this spot
Ordered by how common, not by search volume.
-
Quadriceps tear
The front of the thigh pops and pulls, and straightening the knee is hard
Get help right away ifCall emergency services or go to A&E if you heard a crack when it happened, if the injured part has changed shape, if it has turned blue or grey, or if it feels numb.
Why it happens
Something has been overstretched or torn — here, the quadriceps at the front of the thigh. It happens when you overstretch or twist, and more easily if you did not warm up or it was already tired.
How it feels
- Pain, tenderness, or weakness
- Swelling or bruising
- Muscle cramping or spasms
- You cannot put weight on it or use it normally
How long it usually lasts
Most feel better after about 2 weeks. Avoid heavy exercise such as running for up to 8 weeks.
When to see a doctor
Get advice if severe pain is getting worse, if swelling or bruising is bad or worsening, if you cannot put weight on it or move it, or if you have a high temperature or feel shivery (that can mean infection).
Source: NHS (UK)
-
Patellar tendinitis
Below the kneecap hurts going downstairs or standing up from a chair
Why it happens
A tendon swells after an injury — here, the tendon below the kneecap. It comes from sudden movements or repeated exercise such as running, jumping, or throwing, and from repeating the same motion with poor form or technique.
How it feels
- Pain in the tendon that gets worse when you move
- Trouble moving that joint
- A grating or crackling feeling when the tendon moves
- Swelling, sometimes with heat or redness
How long it usually lasts
Mild tendonitis should feel better within 2 to 3 weeks.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if it has not improved after a few weeks. Get urgent advice if the pain is severe or you think the tendon has ruptured.
Source: NHS (UK)
-
IT band syndrome
The outer knee burns while running and settles with rest
Why it happens
The iliotibial band, which runs down the outside of the leg from the top of the hip to below the knee, swells and becomes irritated as it rubs against bone. Repeated knee bending such as running or cycling, a tight band, too little warm-up, core muscle imbalance, and a sudden change in activity level all contribute.
How it feels
- A mild pain on the outside of the knee or hip when you start exercising, which fades as you warm up
- Over time the pain stays through the exercise and gets worse
- Worse going downhill
- Worse after sitting a long time with the knee bent
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if the pain gets worse or does not improve within a few weeks.
-
Patellofemoral pain syndrome
The front of the knee feels raw after long sitting or on stairs
-
Quadriceps contusion
The thigh bruises and swells enough that bending hurts