It can be disappointing and disruptive when a knee injury occurs. The pain might range from mild to severe, but it also impacts being able to work out or play, and even simple everyday tasks like using the stairs. If it is severe enough that you cannot exercise at all, that can lead to more issues that include the deterioration in muscles that surround the knee. Seeing a physio Perth or where you live can help manage the pain, get movement back and improve strength where it is needed.
More common reasons for knee pain
Here are just some of the more common reasons or causes of pain in one or both knees.
- Damaging the meniscus in the knee. The meniscus is a cartilage-like connective tissue that provides a thick layer in the knee joint and gives support and helps with stability. When it is damaged through an injury or accident it will cause knee pain.
- Damaging or overloading the patellofemoral joint. This is the place where the thigh bone and kneecap articulate.
- Doing too much to the quadriceps tendon and patella. This can happen when performing knee-loading actions such as running and jumping. It leads to spikes of pain in the affected knee.
- Injuring any major knee ligaments. This can be from trauma, direct contact or a twisting or pivoting motion. It includes the PCL, the ACL and the MCL. It is something that can lead a person to look for a physio near me.
- Damaging or overloading the layers of cartilage in the joint of the knee known as the articular cartilage. This can be also linked to having arthritis in the knee.
Using a physiotherapist to help
You can go to a doctor about knee pain, but you can also see a physio Perth or where you are. Your doctor may also refer you to a physiotherapist. They can help look at the causing factors of what is making your knee hurt and help with managing the pain and recovering. With them, you can talk about what type of activity is safe to carry on with and how you can build up your strength if you need to, what to avoid, and what kind of rest and recovery routine you need. Examples of management and treatment options for knee pain include;
- Dry needling
- Bracing and taping
- Manual therapy specific to knee treatment such as mobilisations, massage and trigger point therapy
- Managing inflammation
- Pilates
- Modifying activity and load
- Exercise rehabilitation
- Stretching and mobility exercise
- Strengthening
- Undergoing a running assessment and receiving advice
Summary
When it comes to recovering from knee pain a great physio near me is one option for the best chance at healing. Keep in mind that the treatment approach and recovery time will be different from one patient to another, as it depends on various factors including cause, health and how well you follow their treatment plan. If you are a runner and have knee pain you could get back to the activity you love a lot sooner. They can also help you avoid injuring yourself again.