Sometimes we kneed a really good pun, wouldn't you say?
The knee joint is one of the largest and most complex joints in the body, and it is susceptible to a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions that can cause pain, affect mobility and bring frustrations to everyday activities.
In this blog, we'll explore some of the most common musculoskeletal conditions of the knee and how chiropractic can help you.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common condition that can affect almost any joint in the body, including the knee joints. It is characterised by the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. You may also feel or hear a grinding sensation within the joint. Risk factors include age, obesity, trauma, genetics or biomechanical dysfunction.
Your chiropractor can help alleviate the pain associated with osteoarthritis through a variety of techniques, including joint mobilisation, stretching, and soft tissue therapy.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome:
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, also known as Runner's Knee, is a common condition that affects the patella (knee cap). It is typically caused by overuse, tight quadriceps, anatomical variations of the patella and poor shoe choice. Symptoms may include pain around the kneecap, particularly during activities that require bending for prolonged periods (sitting), and bending the knees, such as walking up stairs.
Chiropractic can help reduce the symptoms associated with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome through targeted strengthening exercises, manual therapy, kinesiotaping and patient education.
Meniscal Tears:
Meniscal tears are a common knee injury that occurs when the meniscus, (which cushions the knee joint) becomes damaged or torn. Tearing occurs when the knee joint is twisted, through a single traumatic event or repetitive movements. This can cause pain, and stiffness in the knee joint. Swelling may occur, however it has a delayed onset. When moving the knee, you may hear clicking or experience joint locking.
Chiropractic care can help ease the discomfort associated with meniscal tears through joint mobilisation, restoring normal biomechanical function, and soft tissue therapy. Severe tears may require surgical intervention.
Ligament Sprains:
There are many ligaments in the knee, such as the collateral and cruciate ligaments – and each of these can become partially torn, hence a sprain. As the severity of the tear increases – so do the symptoms. Less severe tears will result in slight tenderness, no loss of joint motion and result in quick recovery. More severe tears lead to severe swelling, instability and an inability to bear weight.
Your chiropractor can help ease the pain and instability associated with ligament sprains through joint mobilisation, stretching, and soft tissue therapy. Severe tears will require longer healing periods and potentially surgical intervention. Patient education is crucial and a progressive return to sport is highly recommended in order to avoid repetitive injuries.
IT Band Syndrome (ITBS):
IT Band Syndrome is the irritation of the iliotibial tendon, a condition that often affects runners and other athletes. This band rubs up against another structure in the knee, the lateral femoral condyle, causing irritation and inflammation. The band originates high up on the thigh, and runs down to the knee joint. It is characterised by pain or tenderness on the outside of the knee, and is typically as a result of overuse, poor biomechanics, pronation and leg length inequality.
Chiropractic care can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with IT Band Syndrome through specific exercises, stretching that will relieve the entire band, and manual therapy.
Let's sum it up...
Chiropractic care can be an effective, natural way to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions of the knee. By addressing the underlying causes of pain and discomfort, your chiropractor can help you improve mobility, reduce risk of future injury, and enjoy an active, pain-free lifestyle.
If you're experiencing knee pain or discomfort, consider scheduling an appointment with Dr Lauren (click the link below)
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