Knee pain is one of the most common complaints we hear at Fray & Stafford Physical Therapy, particularly among our older demographic.
One reason for this is due to wear and tear, which occurs when the knee joint lacks adequate muscular support. The surrounding muscles’ weakness can strain the joint, leading to pain over time.
The surrounding muscles’ weakness can strain the joint, leading to pain over time. Injuries, such as falls or repetitive stress from activities like running or contact sports, are another significant factor, causing damage to ligaments, tendons, or cartilage.
Other conditions associated with knee pain include:
- Osteoarthritis: A degenerative condition where the cartilage in the knee wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder causing inflammation in the knee joint.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons, often from repetitive movements or overuse, such as in “jumper’s knee”.
- Meniscus Tears: Damage to the cartilage that cushions the knee, commonly caused by twisting motions during sports.
- Ligament Injuries: Sprains or tears to ligaments like the ACL, often due to trauma or sudden stops.
While pain from these conditions can vary in intensity, addressing this pain often involves identifying the root cause, which can guide treatment to restore function and reduce discomfort effectively.
What are the symptoms of Knee Pain?
Knee pain symptoms can vary depending on the cause but commonly include:
- Pain and Discomfort: A dull ache or sharp pain felt during movement or even at rest.
- Swelling and Stiffness: The knee may appear swollen and feel stiff, making bending or straightening difficult.
- Weakness or Instability: A sensation of the knee “giving out” during activities.
- Redness and Warmth: Indicative of inflammation or infection.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee.
Knee pain can significantly impact your daily – simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or standing for extended periods become challenging. Persistent pain may discourage exercise, leading to decreased fitness and weight gain. Sleep disturbances are common due to discomfort, affecting energy levels throughout the day, and can lead to changes in your mood such as an increase in irritability. For those who rely on physical mobility for work or hobbies, knee pain can hinder productivity and enjoyment – significantly hindering quality of life.
Request A Call Back from a physical therapist
If you’re not quite ready to book an appointment yet and have some questions you would like answered first, click the link below to complete a form to get the conversation started.
What Is Our Approach To Treating Knee Pain?
At Fray & Stafford Physical Therapy, we provide a comprehensive approach to treating knee pain, combining evidence-based techniques with personalized care to address both the symptoms and underlying causes of discomfort.
- Soft Tissue Mobilization: This hands-on technique focuses on releasing tension in the muscles, tendons, and fascia surrounding the knee. By reducing tightness and improving blood flow, soft tissue mobilization not only alleviates pain but also enhances flexibility and promotes faster healing. It’s especially effective for patients experiencing stiffness or inflammation caused by overuse or injury.
- Strength Training: Strengthening the muscles that support the knee, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves, is a cornerstone of our treatment. Targeted exercises improve joint stability, reduce stress on the knee, and prevent re-injury. Strength training is tailored to each individual’s needs and progresses gradually to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Joint Mobilizations: This technique involves gentle movements of the knee joint to restore normal range of motion and alignment. Joint mobilizations are highly effective for addressing stiffness and improving function in cases of arthritis, injury, or post-surgical recovery. By restoring optimal joint mechanics, patients experience reduced pain and greater mobility.
Our approach draws on techniques similar to those used for treating hip pain, recognizing the interconnectedness of the body’s structure. By addressing mobility, strength, and joint alignment, we aim to not only reduce pain but also improve overall function and quality of life. Whether your knee pain results from arthritis, a sports injury, or post-surgical recovery, our personalized care plans are designed to help you return to the activities you love with confidence and ease.
Need To Know More About Cost and Availability?
If you’d like to find out more information about the cost and availability of our services click the button below to complete a short form, a member our team will then reach out.
Download our Free Report
Is knee pain a constant source of discomfort that is getting in the way of what you want to do?
Life is too short to simply put up with persistent discomfort that limits what hobbies and activities you can do.
Discover our free knee pain report to learn practical tips that you can implement at home to alleviate your pain. Take the first step towards living the life you deserve by downloading our free pain report today!