Kicking Knee Pain to the Curb: The Power of Physical Therapy

Did you know physical therapy is highly effective against knee pain?

Knee pain affects people of all ages and backgrounds.  “Among American adults, approximately 25% have experienced knee pain that affects the function of their knee” (“Guide | Physical Therapy Guide to Knee Pain”).  

Knee pain can be due to injury, overuse, or a chronic condition like arthritis. Knee pain can limit mobility and can significantly impact daily life. Some treatments include medication and surgery. Another effective treatment to address knee pain 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 connects your upper leg (femur) to your lower leg (tibia) and includes your knee cap (patella). The knee joint includes many structures such as cartilage, meniscus, bursa, ligaments, muscles/tendons, and nerves. The knee joint helps you move your leg, helps you to stand and walk, and maintains your balance (“Knee Joint: Function & Anatomy”).

Many issues can occur with a knee joint including ligament tears, cartilage damage, tendonitis, bursitis, and osteoarthritis. These conditions can result from acute injuries (sports) or develop over time due to wear and tear. 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 provides a non-invasive treatment for knee pain. Physical therapy can improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall function of the knee. A skilled physical therapist will assess the individual to identify the cause of the knee pain and then develop a personalized treatment plan.

Physical Therapy treatments may Include:

• Therapeutic Exercises: Therapeutic exercises are used to address deficits in strength, flexibility, and stability around the knee joint. Stretching and strengthening exercises (with weights, bands, or body weight) may be included.
• Manual Therapy: Manual therapy provides hands-on techniques, such as massage and joint mobilization to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and enhance tissue healing.
• Modalities: Modalities can help manage pain, and inflammation and promote healing. Physical therapists may use ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat therapy, or cold therapy.
• Functional Training: Functional Training helps improve participation in functional activities including daily tasks 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: Your physical therapist may recommend a knee brace to provide support to your knee. If you need to use a cane or a walker to reduce strain on the knee joint your physical therapist can train you on the proper use.
• Education and Prevention: A crucial aspect of physical therapy is educating patients about their condition, proper body mechanics, and strategies for preventing future injuries. This empowers individuals 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”.