Possible Causes of Burning Sensation in Knee A burning sensation in the knee can be caused by an actual burn to the knee area can lead to the burning sensation. The burn can be caused by: chemicals, electricity, heat and sunburn. Certain diseases can trigger the body's inflammatory response, like: 1  Gout occurs when there is a build-up of uric acid in the joint causing pain. Treatment is with medication and avoiding certain foods that cause the uric acid crystals to form in the joint. 2  Osteoarthritis occurs over a period of time.