I fell on my knees a few years ago, banging up the inner sides - next to the kneecaps.  A few days ago my left knee started having sharp pain and stiffness during some (but not all) activity - i figured it was the cold - and have tried to be gentle on it - but it seems to be stiffer and harder to use each day.
Hi, From the history of previous injury I don't think there is any relation between past and present pain. As of now I would advise you to take hot pack. To relax your leg muscles especially the calf muscles you can give them a hot water bath with Epsom salt in it. Doing gentle knee press, ankle toe movements, knee flexion and extension will help you in maintaining the flexibility of the joint if there is no swelling, no pain, no problem with walking other than stiffness I believe there is nothing to worry much about it this will help you with pain relief. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.