Knee Pain
Knee Osteoarthritis
Degenerativ changes in the cartilage lining the joint surfaces of the knee can cause pain, stiffness and difficulty with functional activities like prolonged walking, stairs, squatting and kneeling. Treatment focuses on building strength in the surrounding musculature, addressing compensatory biomechanics and improving exercise tolerance.
Total Knee Replacement
If arthritis is advanced and significantly impacting function and quality of life, a knee replacement can be a very helpful treatment option. If you are waiting for a knee replacement, physiotherapy can help manage your pain, maintain movement and increase strength in anticipation of upcoming surgery. There is good evidence in the literature to support pre-habilitation for improving recovery and surgical outcomes. After surgery, physiotherapy is essential for regaining movement, strength and function. You will receive some gentle exercises in the hospital following surgery, and then follow up with physiotherapy for ongoing management from 2 weeks onwards.
Patellofemoral Joint Pain
This condition involves pain at the front of the knee, and is typically caused by weakness, altered biomechanics or hypermobility. It is most common in the younger female population. Physiotherapy focuses on identifying and treating areas of weakness, optomising joint biomechanics, improving strength and symptom management with taping or bracing if necessary.
Patellar Tendinopathy
Patellar tendinopathy affects the tendon just below the kneecap, and is often triggered by rapid increases in activity or chronic overload. Sports, running, jumping and stairs can be quite aggravating for this condition. Physiotherapy aims to decrease the stress on the tendon, optimise biomechanics and introduce a graded strengthening program specific for the patella tendon.
Osgood Schlatters Disease
Osgood Schlatter's is a painful bump where the patellar tendon attaches to the shin bone. It is caused by excess traction forces, and is most prevalent amongst children experiencing a growth spurt. Treatment focuses on reducing stress on the patellar tendon, reducing or modifying sports/activity and prescribing specific exercises to minimise stress on the knee. Taping and bracing may also help.
Meniscus Tears
Meniscus are two c-shaped wedges of cartilage that provide stability and shock absorption in the knee joint. Tears in the meniscus can be caused by high impact or twisting injuries, as well as degenerative age related changes. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, reduced range of movement, catching or collapsing of the knee. Physiotherapy is the first line of treatment for managing pain and swelling, and regaining strength and function following a meniscus tear. Depending on the severity and location of the meniscus tear, surgery may be required.
Ligamentous Injuries
There are multiple ligaments in the knee to provide support and stability. These include the ACL and PCL deep inside the knee joint, as well as collateral ligaments on either side of the knee. Damage to the ligaments of the knee are mostly due to sporting injuries, however, can occur with trips and slips, falls and from other recreational activities. These injuries can range from mild strains, all the way up to complete ruptures. In severe cases, surgical repair may be an option. Physiotherapy is essential for recovery and return to sport after ligamentous injury.
Contact Free Movement Physio to book an appointment for a one on one consultation to discuss your knee concerns.
