Knee pain
The knee
The knee is a complex joint. The joint consists of the bones of the lower leg and upper leg sliding over each other and the knee disc sliding over them. The knee is surrounded by several body structures. Consider the thigh muscles, the quadriceps, which run across the kneecap and attach to the shin bone with a long tendon. Around and inside the knee are several ligaments (ligaments) that keep the knee stable. On the inside of the knee are the menisci (plural for meniscus). These menisci distribute pressure throughout the knee, so that all structures are equally loaded.
What causes knee pain?
Knee pain can be caused by a variety of factors. They can result from acute injuries, as well as overuse or degenerative conditions. Some common causes are:
- Sprains or strains: These injuries often result from improper movement or falls, which can cause pain and swelling.
- Wear and tear (osteoarthritis): As we age, the cartilage in the knee can wear down, leading to pain, stiffness and limited movement.
- Meniscus injury: A tear in the meniscus, the cartilage in the knee, can occur from twisting movements or sudden changes in direction.
- Band injury: a tear in the anterior cruciate ligament or another knee ligament is not only painful, recovery can sometimes take months.
What do you notice about knee problems?
Knee pain can range from mild irritation to severe pain that interferes with your daily activities. Possible symptoms include:
- Pain when bending or stretching the knee
- Swelling or a feeling of warmth around the joint
- Stiffness or limited range of motion
- A feeling of instability or clicking in the knee
How can we help?
At VMfysio, we do our best to visualize the symptoms as best we can. Here we look at the entire chain, including the ankle, hip and lower back. We offer a personalized treatment plan that focuses on pain relief, restoring movement and strengthening the muscles around the knee. This may include exercise therapy, manual therapy and advice on posture and movement.
Many people think that surgery is necessary in most cases. Research shows that physical therapy is sufficient or even better than surgery in most cases.