Why Do My Knees Hurt When I Go Down Stairs?

Knee pain when descending stairs typically results from increased pressure on the kneecap and surrounding structures. Going downstairs places 3-4 times your body weight on each knee joint, significantly more stress than walking on flat surfaces. This increased load commonly aggravates conditions like patellofemoral pain syndrome, where the kneecap doesn't track properly in its groove. Weak quadriceps muscles, tight IT bands, or cartilage wear can also contribute to this specific pattern of pain. The eccentric muscle contractions required to control your descent create additional strain on already compromised knee structures. If pain persists beyond a few days or worsens, consider consulting a healthcare provider for proper evaluation.