Are You Struggling with Knee Pain? Maybe it’s Time to Book an Assessment with our Team
Knee pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages, limiting mobility and impacting daily activities. Whether caused by an injury, repetitive strain or underlying conditions, it can significantly diminish one’s quality of life. However, with the right approach, including physiotherapy, managing and alleviating knee pain is possible.
Understanding Knee Pain
The knee is a joint that withstands stress during movement. Pain in this area can stem from various sources:
- Injury: Trauma, such as ligament tears (like ACL or meniscus tears) or fractures often leads to immediate and severe knee pain
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory conditions can deteriorate the knee joint resulting in chronic pain and stiffness
Role of Physiotherapy in Managing Knee Pain
Physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in both treating and preventing knee pain. A personalised treatment plan crafted by a physiotherapist often includes:
- Assessment: A thorough evaluation of the knee’s range of motion, strength, and flexibility. Your physiotherapist may also look at the joint above and below your knee to help identify the root cause of the pain
- Exercise: Tailored exercises to strengthen or increase flexibility of the muscles surrounding the knee, improving stability and reducing strain on the joint in the long term
- Manual Therapy: Techniques like massage, mobilisation, or manipulation by a physiotherapist can aid in reducing pain and improving mobility in the short term
- Education: Understanding anatomy, proper body mechanics, ergonomics, and techniques to protect the knee during daily activities is crucial in preventing future injuries
Tips for Managing Knee Pain at Home
In addition to physiotherapy sessions, individuals experiencing knee pain can follow these tips for self-care:
- Pain Relief: Speak to your GP or Pharmacist about appropriate pain medication in the short-term as this can allow you to complete day to day activities as well as your home exercise programme which will help eliminate the pain for longer
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra weight can add stress to the knees, exacerbating pain. Walking, cycling, swimming or any activity you can do that you enjoy and makes you feel better!
When to Seek Professional Help
While self-care measures can provide relief for minor knee pain, it’s crucial to seek professional help if:
- Pain persists or worsens over time.
- The knee is significantly swollen, red, or warm to the touch.
- There’s an inability to bear weight on the affected knee.
Conclusion
Knee pain is a prevalent issue that can significantly impact daily life. However, with the right approach, including physiotherapy, individuals can manage pain, improve mobility, and prevent further complications. If you’re experiencing knee pain, consulting a physiotherapist is an essential step towards understanding and addressing the underlying causes while working toward a pain-free and active lifestyle.
Get Social