Health ConditionsOrthopedic ConditionsKnee PainFinding Relief: What’s the Best Painkiller for Knee Pain?iStockByQuinn PhillipsPublished on July 2, 2025Medically ReviewedbyScott Haak, PT, DPT, MTC, CSCSON THIS PAGEUnderstanding Knee PainOptions for Pain ReliefOTC PainkillersPrescription MedicationsTopical MedicationsNondrug ApproachesChoosing the Right PainkillerON THIS PAGEUnderstanding Knee PainOptions for Pain ReliefOTC PainkillersPrescription MedicationsTopical MedicationsNondrug ApproachesChoosing the Right PainkillerKnee pain is a common problem among adults of all ages. It can have many causes, including arthritis, traumatic injury, and stress on structures of the knee over time.[1]Sometimes knee pain is mild and goes away on its own, requiring no special treatment. But for persistent or moderate to severe knee pain, it’s important to see a doctor for evaluation. Some underlying issues can get worse on their own, and you may have better outcomes with earlier treatment.You should seek emergency medical care following a knee injury if you have intense pain or sudden swelling, or if you can’t stand on your knee. Make an appointment to see a doctor as soon as possible if you have severe knee pain from any cause, or if the area is badly swollen, red, or warm and tender.[2]For knee pain that doesn’t require immediate attention, here’s what you should know about painkillers and related options for knee pain relief.Meet Our ExpertsSee Our Editorial PolicyMeet Our Health Expert NetworkScott Haak, PT, DPT, MTC, CSCSMedical ReviewerScott Haak, PT, DPT, has been a member of the Mayo Clinic staff since 2000. Dr. Haak serves as faculty for the Sports Medicine Fellowship program at Mayo Clinic Florida. He is certified by the NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association) as a CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist), is a Certified USA Weightlifting Coach and Certified USA Football Coach, and possesses a MTC (Manual Therapy Certification) from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences.Haak is an exercise enthusiast and enjoys running, weightlifting, and sports performance training. He is the president and director of coaching of a youth tackle football organization, JDL Providence Football, and currently coaches high school football and weight lifting.See full bioQuinn PhillipsAuthorA freelance health writer and editor based in Wisconsin, Quinn Phillips has a degree in government from Harvard University. He writes on a variety of topics, but is especially interested in the intersection of health and public policy. Phillips has written for various publications and websites, such as Diabetes Self-Management, Practical Diabetology, and Gluten-Free Living, among others.See full bioSee Our Editorial PolicyMeet Our Health Expert Network , Learn about the differences between these popular OTC pain medications and which is best for headaches, fever, back pain and other conditions., This article looks at the best medication for knee pain, home remedies, prevention of knee pain, and when to contact a doctor..