Knee pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including injuries (ligament tears, meniscus injuries, fractures), medical conditions (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout), infection, mechanical problems (dislocated kneecap, iliotibial band syndrome) or simply overuse.
Addressing knee pain depends on the underlying cause and severity, but common Western treatment options include:
- RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation): This is often recommended for acute injuries to reduce pain and swelling.
- Physical Therapy: This can help strengthen muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and restore function.
- Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to manage pain and inflammation.
- Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain in some cases.
- Surgery: This may be necessary in severe cases, such as for ligament tears or advanced arthritis.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, and using proper techniques during physical activity can help prevent knee pain and improve overall knee health.
Treating knee pain/injury, however, also needs to address the structures above and below as they are highly moveable and articulating joints. When the hips are out of alignment with conditions such as an outflare/inflare or anterior or posterior position, the knee and ankle must compensate to keep the eyes neutral to the earth (as that is the brain’s main goal). Vice versa also applies and must be addressed, if a foot has pronated (collapsed) or has supinated (high arches), it will put pressure on the knee to fall in or fall out leaving wear and tear on the medial or lateral aspect of the knee. Having an unfavorable angle of the knee can also lead to tension up into the body such as the spine and neck.
So next time you feel a little twinge in your knee, take a moment to look at your feet and your hips to see a bigger picture of “why” your knee might be showing symptoms. To find out how we can have you “running right” please reach out and book today to see your “pain-free” tomorrow.
Image Reference: https://www.acesportsclinic.com.au/blog/how-to-deal-with-knee-pain/