There is a multitude of potential factors that can contribute to knee pain when bending and applying pressure to it.

Here are some possible reasons…

1. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) – PFPS, also known as runner’s knee, is a common condition characterized by pain around or behind the kneecap, especially during activities that involve bending the knee, such as squatting, running, or climbing stairs.
2. Meniscus Tear – A meniscus tear is a common knee injury that can cause pain, especially when bending the knee. The meniscus is a rubbery cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the thighbone and shinbone. A tear in the meniscus can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly during movements that involve bending or twisting the knee.
3. Patellar Tendonitis – Patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper’s knee, is an overuse injury that affects the tendon connecting the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone. It typically causes pain and tenderness around the front of the knee, which worsens with activities such as jumping, running, or squatting.
4. Arthritis – Knee arthritis, including osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis) and rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune arthritis), can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee joint. Symptoms often worsen with movement and weight-bearing activities such as bending the knee.
5. Bursitis – Knee bursitis is inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint. Bursitis can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness around the knee, particularly when bending or kneeling.
6. Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome – IT band syndrome occurs when the iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh, becomes tight or inflamed. This can cause pain on the outside of the knee, especially with activities that involve bending the knee, such as running or cycling.
7. Ligament Injury – Injuries to the knee ligaments, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), or medial collateral ligament (MCL), can cause pain, instability, and difficulty bending the knee.
8. Cartilage Damage – Damage to the articular cartilage, the smooth covering of the ends of the bones in the knee joint, can cause pain and discomfort, particularly during movements that involve bending the knee.

If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain when bending and putting pressure on it, it’s necessary to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physician or orthopedic specialist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. They can evaluate your symptoms, perform any necessary tests or imaging studies, and recommend treatments to alleviate your knee pain and address the underlying cause.