Knee Pain Location Chart. Pain on the sides of the knee is commonly related to injuries to the collateral ligaments, arthritis, or tears to the meniscuses. 10 pain, difficulty straightening the leg, bruising, and swelling can occur.

But more serious cases (like sudden injuries that damage tendons and ligaments, or severe joint degeneration) need medical attention and sometimes surgery. A tear in the cartilage in the knee. Try our interactive pain locator!