Kicking Knee Pain to the Curb: The Power of Physical Therapy
Did you know physical therapy is highly effective against knee pain?
People of all ages and backgrounds suffer from knee pain. “Among American adults, approximately 25% have experienced knee pain that impacts the function of their knee” (“Guide | Physical Therapy Guide to Knee Pain”).
There are three main causes of knee pain: injury, overuse, and a specific chronic condition such as arthritis. Knee pain interferes with daily life and limits one’s ability to move. Some treatments include medication and knee surgery. One of the most effective treatments is Physical Therapy. This blog explores how physical therapy can help you “Kick Knee Pain to the Curb”.
Understanding Knee Pain
The knee is a hinge joint that links your upper leg – the femur – to your leg that is lower tibia – and includes your kneecap – the patella. The knee joint is made up of many different constructions, including cartilage tissue, menisci, bursa, ligaments muscle that is tendinous and nerves. The knee joint allows you to relocate your leg, allows you to stay and move, and helps you balance control (“Knee Joint: Function & Anatomy”).
The knee joint can be a source of a variety of issues to many people. The typical knee-joint problems are ligament rips, cartilage disruption, tendinitis, bursitis, and osteoarthritis. These conditions can result from acute injuries (sports) or develop over time due to wear and tear. The symptoms associated with the knee joint include pain, inflammation swelling/redness/warmth), stiffness, and joint grinding or popping with activity.
The Role of Physical Therapy in Managing Knee Pain
Physical therapy offers a non-invasive treatment option to knee pain. Physical therapy can improve the strength, flexibility, equilibrium, and overall function of the knee. A skilled physical therapist will examine the individual to identify the cause of the knee pain and then devise a treatment plan tailored to their requirements.
Physical Therapy interventions may Include:
- Therapeutic Exercises: They are used to address deficits such as strength, flexibility, and stability around the knee joint. Stretching and strengthening-based exercises, such as weights, bands, or body weight, may be utilized.
- Manual Therapy: A hands-on procedure, including massage and joint mobilization, to reduce pain and swelling, boost movement, and expedite tissue healing.
- Modalities: These can help can help manage pain, and inflammation and promote healing. The approaches include ultrasound, electrical stimulation, hot or cold packs.
- Functional Training: It facilitates engagement in functional daily tasks activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of a chair and balance training.
- Sports-Specific Training: Physical therapy can mimic and use sports-specific training to help athletes return to their sport safely
- Bracing and Assistive Devices: A knee brace may also be prescribed by the physical therapist if you need to wear one to minimize pain or deformity. A therapist may also show you how to utilize a cane, walker, and assistive tools.
- Education and Prevention: A key aspect of physical therapy is educating patients about their existing condition, right body mechanics, and strategies for preventing future injuries. This empowers patients to take an active role in their recovery and long-term joint health.
Benefits of Physical Therapy for Knee Pain
- Improve strength, flexibility, and endurance
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Enhance joint stability and mobility
- Prevent further injury or progression of the condition
- Restore functional abilities for daily activities and sports
- Minimize the need for medication or invasive procedures
- Promote overall health and wellness
Conclusion
Knee pain can feel overwhelming but with Physical Therapy, knee pain doesn’t have to define your life. By working with your skilled physical therapist, you can manage your pain and improve your function and overall quality of life. To learn more about our knee pain physical therapy services at Divine Spine Physical Therapy, visit our dedicated webpage here!
Physical Therapy provides a pathway to return to your favorite activities, maintain an active lifestyle, and move without knee pain. Get in touch with Divinespine Physical Therapy so that you can “Kick Knee Pain to the Curb”.