Knee Pain
Knee pain is a very common problem for many people who are involved in regular physical activity, and also for those who are not very active at all. Without knowing what the cause of your pain, it can be challenging to know what to do to make it better.
There are many causes of knee pain. If you have had an obvious injury to the knee like an impact, twisting or awkward bending movement, you may have suffered a ligament or cartilage injury. Whereas if pain develops gradually without any trauma, it is more likely to be caused by over/underuse, muscle imbalance or a mechanical issue. All of which can be successfully treated with the right course of action.
Have you suffered an obvious injury to your knee?
If so, you will likely require a period of rest from your normal physical activities, which will depend on the severity of the injury. Too much rest however, will also slow down your recovery, so it is important to get specialist advice about this. You will need to undertake a regular progressive exercise programme to build the strength in your knee while the tissues heel, allowing you to return to your normal function.
Did your knee pain come on without an obvious injury?
If you are very active or have recently increased your active levels, you may be experiencing an overuse injury. This is normally nothing to be worried about and is a sign that you have been working hard, so well done! All you need to do is make a few changes to your training, to stop this happening. Symptoms can be quite significant and last a long time, however, this is not always a good indicator of how serious your problem is. Training at lower intensity for a period of time and undertaking a specific exercise programme, will get you back where you want to be.
Are you inactive?
I don’t need to tell you that long periods of inactivity are bad for you. However, there are some specific things that you may not know. Studies have shown that people who are inactive are more likely to have poor joint quality in their knees, compared to those who jog regularly. This is a surprise to many people, as it is commonly thought that jogging is bad for your knees. Now, I’m not saying that jogging is the only option. There are hundreds of ways to become more active, you just have to find the one you enjoy. Exercise is also a great pain killer! With the rush of endorphins, the increased muscle, joint and bone strength as well as the social side of exercise, your knees will thank you.
Do you need a scan?
A scan is rarely the 1st option for anyone with knee pain. A course of physiotherapy is usually the best option which can resolve most knee issues. A Physiotherapist will be able to assess you to determine whether a scan is necessary immediately, or after a course of treatment.
Do you need surgery?
Don’t worry! Surgery is usually the last option. Most conditions are responsive to a course of physiotherapy. Your Physiotherapist will ask you specific questions, which will help decide whether a surgical opinion is required.
IF YOUR KNEE PAIN IS NOT SETTLING AND YOU NEED HELP GETTING BACK TO YOUR NORMAL FUNCTION, GET ADVICE FROM A PHYSIOTHERAPIST!
