Knee Pain Diagnosis & Treatment in Seoul Explained in English
Knee pain can come from worn cartilage, a twisted ligament, a torn meniscus or an irritated kneecap. We find the cause first, then match the treatment to your knee and your plans.
Gangnam Nanoori Hospital in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, near Hakdong Station (Line 7, Exit 10), assesses knee pain with English-speaking coordinators. Joint Center orthopedic surgeons examine the knee, use X-ray, ultrasound or MRI to find the cause, such as arthritis, a ligament or meniscus tear, or kneecap pain, and usually start with physical therapy or image-guided injections. To book, message WhatsApp +82-10-6290-9796.
Common causes of knee pain
Where the pain sits, how it started and your age all give useful clues. A sudden injury points to a ligament or meniscus problem, while slow-building pain is often arthritis or overuse. Our Knee Center treats all of these.
Osteoarthritis
Cartilage slowly wears thin, causing stiffness, swelling and aching that is often worse in the morning or after activity.
Ligament injury
A twist or awkward landing can sprain or tear a ligament. An ACL tear often makes the knee give way.
Meniscus tear
Twisting on a bent knee, or age-related wear, can tear the meniscus and cause catching or locking. See meniscus tears.
Patellofemoral pain
Pain around the kneecap, often called runner's knee, linked to overload, weak hips or thighs, and sudden increases in training.
Bow legs
Bowed alignment puts extra load on the inner knee, which can lead to pain and earlier arthritis on that side.
Tendon and bursa irritation
Overuse can inflame tendons or the fluid-filled sacs around the knee, causing local tenderness and swelling.
Knee pain symptoms to note before your visit
Keep a short note of what makes your knee better or worse. It helps your surgeon narrow down the cause quickly.
Common symptoms
- Aching in the front, inside or outside of the knee
- Swelling, either right after an injury or building over hours
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting
- Catching, clicking or the knee locking in one position
- A feeling that the knee gives way or is unstable
- Pain on stairs, squatting, kneeling or running
Seek care urgently if you have
- A hot, red, very swollen knee with fever or chills
- Inability to bear weight or an obvious deformity after a fall
- A knee locked so it will not straighten
- Calf swelling and pain, especially after recent surgery or a long flight
These can signal infection, fracture or a blood clot and need prompt medical attention; if the situation is life-threatening, call 119.
If your pain started with running or stairs and sits around the kneecap, targeted strengthening often helps; your surgeon will tailor a plan.
How we diagnose knee pain
A careful examination comes first. Imaging is chosen to answer a specific question, not ordered by default.
| Test | What it shows |
|---|---|
| Physical examination | Swelling, range of motion, ligament stability, meniscus signs and leg alignment |
| Standing X-ray | Joint space narrowing from arthritis, bone spurs, fractures and bow-leg alignment |
| Ultrasound | Tendons, fluid in the joint and bursae; also used to guide injections |
| MRI | Ligaments such as the ACL, the meniscus, cartilage and bone bruising |
If you already have scans from another hospital, bring the images and reports so we can avoid repeating tests.
Knee pain treatment, least invasive first
Most knee pain improves without surgery. We move to the next step only if your knee is not getting better or is unstable.
Activity changes and relief
Short-term rest from painful activities, ice, a knee support if useful, and pain medication suited to your health.
Physical therapy
Dedicated therapists build thigh and hip strength, balance and movement control. This is the core treatment for most knee pain.
Image-guided injections
Ultrasound- or fluoroscopy-guided injections can ease pain and inflammation so you can keep up rehabilitation.
Bone marrow (BMAC) injection
For selected patients with knee arthritis, a bone marrow concentrate injection may be discussed as an option.
Surgery when needed
Arthroscopy for meniscus or ligament problems, osteotomy for bow legs, or knee replacement for advanced arthritis.
When arthritis is advanced: what replacement does
If arthritis pain persists despite good non-surgical care, replacing the worn surfaces can relieve pain. Robotic assistance helps plan precise implant position.
Simplified medical illustration for education only, not a patient image. Results vary by condition and individual; your specialist will explain what to expect for your case.
Your Specialists
Care at this clinic is provided by Nanoori Joint Center orthopedic surgeons. Tap a doctor to see their full profile.
Dr. Jae Chang Lim
Bow-leg correction and bone marrow injection
Dr. Seong Cheol Moon
Sports knee injuries and arthroscopy
Dr. Hyun Seok Seo
Knee cartilage and ligament problems
Dr. Young Wan Go
Knee arthroscopy and joint replacement
Nanoori specialist on knee pain · Video may be in Korean — ask our English-speaking team about anything you see.
Common Questions
When should I see a doctor for knee pain?
See a doctor if pain lasts more than a few weeks, keeps returning, or stops you from walking, working or exercising normally. Get checked sooner if your knee swelled quickly after an injury, locks, or gives way.
Is knee pain always arthritis?
No. Arthritis is common after middle age, but ligament and meniscus injuries, kneecap pain and tendon irritation are frequent causes, especially in active people. An examination and the right imaging help tell them apart.
Will I need an MRI?
Not always. Many knee problems can be diagnosed with an examination and X-rays. An MRI is usually recommended when a ligament, meniscus or cartilage injury is suspected or when symptoms do not improve.
Can I fly home with knee pain?
Usually yes, but long flights can increase swelling and the risk of blood clots, especially after surgery. Move your legs often, stay hydrated, and ask your surgeon about timing if you have had a procedure.
Does insurance cover knee treatment at Nanoori?
We accept Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS) for enrolled foreign residents. For international insurance, our coordinators explain the billing documents we provide so you can submit a claim; please confirm your coverage with your insurer first.
How do I book a knee appointment?
Message our English-speaking coordinators on WhatsApp at +82-10-6290-9796 or email ihc_info@mfnanoori.co.kr. Tell them your symptoms and travel dates, and attach any scans you have.
Find out what is causing your knee pain
Message our English-speaking coordinators on WhatsApp to book a knee assessment in Gangnam.
Related Care
Last updated October 2026. This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Contact us · Gangnam Nanoori Hospital home
