Knee pain, especially along the joint line
Swelling that appears within hours or a day after injury
Stiffness or reduced range of motion
Catching, locking, or clicking in the knee
Feeling like the knee is stuck or cannot fully straighten
Pain when twisting, squatting, or pivoting
Pain when going up or down stairs
Tenderness when pressing along the side of the knee
A popping sensation at the time of injury
Knee instability or feeling like it may give way
Trouble bearing weight on the affected leg
Symptoms that worsen with activity and improve with rest
A history of twisting the knee during sports or sudden movement
Symptoms that do not improve after a few days
Evaluation by a doctor, including physical exam and imaging if needed