Pain, weakness or dysfunction of the knee, possibly including the hip or ankle.

 

Common symptoms can include:

– Difficulty walking or climbing stairs

– Running pain or performance issues

– Pain when standing for a period of time

– Difficulty squatting or kneeling

– Tingling, numbness, or burning in leg or feet

– Pain or grinding under knee cap

– Clicking or catching with movement

– General stiffness or loss of motion

– Pain or throbbing at rest

– Trouble sleeping

– Sensations spasm or cramping

– Weakness or control issues

– Swelling or tenderness to touch

 

The knee is a hinge joint like the elbow, but with far less bone-provided stability. It is designed to allow for some side to side motion and twisting, but too much in any direction can result in predisposition to injury short term or arthritis development long term.

 

Common causes knee problems include:

– Patellofemoral syndrome

– ACL, PCL or other ligament sprains or tears

– Meniscus wear or damage

– Pinched nerves

– Muscle strains

– Arthritis

– Muscle spasms

– Issues stemming from the back or hip

– Ankle weakness or immobility

– Scar tissue from past injuries or surgeries

– And many more…

 

Physical therapy can help with all of these things and more. *Even if you have been told you have arthritis or been told you need surgery or have had surgery in the past. * Nearly anyone can expect to see at least partial improvement.

 

Most patients are pleasantly surprised to find just how much pain free function they can regain with conservative treatment, even returning to sports and heavy labor. Physical therapy may help you avoid surgery, injections, additional medications, and other more invasive procedures. Even if more invasive procedures eventually become necessary, physical therapy prior to those interventions often improves the outcome.

 

Physical therapy treatment may include:

 

Therapists are trained unlike any other profession with knowledge and skills to specifically identify damaged or malfunctioning structures, how to help them heal naturally where able, and how to help the body accommodate and adapt where necessary.

 

Interesting knee facts:

– The “kinetic chain” refers to the system of the hips, knees, and ankles sharing many muscles and working together to stabilize our core and body against gravity.

– Ankle strength is paramount to knee health.

– Hamstring action helps the ACL do its job.

 

Reminder:

 

The longer you wait, the more complex a problem can become. Call us or book your appointment online today! The sooner the better. Remember, you do not need a referral from any other doctors and your insurance will still be accepted the same as at any other medical appointment. Don’t delay, see us about naturally encouraging your body to heal itself without drugs, injections, or surgeries you may not need.