When you experience sharp pains in the knee when doing squats, you may have one of several common conditions. Overuse syndromes are likely to blame. However, you may also have a knee injury that needs attention. See your doctor as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the further you could damage your knee.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
One common overuse syndrome that can cause pain during squats is called patellofemoral pain syndrome. It happens as a result of sports, exercise or even just climbing stairs. The frequent flexing of the knee can cause the patella or knee cap to come off its groove in the bone in your thigh called the femur, causing sharp pain. The condition is usually resolved with physical therapy.
Patellar Tendinitis
Inflammation of the patellar tendon in the knee is another overuse syndrome and causes pain during squatting. Patellar tendinitis affects the tendon that connects your knee to your shin bone. Repetitive loading on the knee can cause tiny tears in the tendon which your body can normally repair. When you cause tears faster than your body can heal them, however, inflammation occurs and you feel pain. If you don't seek treatment for this condition it can turn into a chronic syndrome known as tendinopathy, which may cause permanent damage to the tendon and require surgery.
Arthritis
Pain in the knee during squats may also be a sign of osteoarthritis. This condition can result from repetitive stress on the knee from exercise or even daily jobs such as laying carpet or sitting for long periods of time. This condition occurs when the cartilage in the knee breaks down. The cartilage acts as cushioning between the bones, and when it begins to deteriorate and thin, it can make flexing the knees painful, especially during a sudden load like squatting. Treatment ranges from physical therapy and medication to knee replacement.
Meniscus Tear
The meniscus is cartilage that acts as a cushion between the femur and the tibia. Over time repetitive stresses can lead to deterioration and small tears. Sometimes tears are large resulting from a misstep that twists the knee. You may be able to kneel or sit with a meniscus tear, but you will likely feel extreme pain during squats. Treatment usually involves surgery to repair the meniscus or remove the part that is torn.
References
- "American Family Physician"; Management of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome; Dr. Sameer Dixit, et al.; January 2007
- Mayo Clinic: Patellar Tendinitis; Causes
- Amaerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Frequently Asked Questions about Osteoarthritis of the Knee
- CBS Moneywatch: Deciphering knee pain; Marvin H. Bloom; February 1999
