knee pain is a reason to go to physical therapist. Orthopedic Physical therapists are proficient in managing injury to the knee. Our training helps us discern between knee injuries which can be handled with a physical therapy professional, or one that requires a physician referral. Because the access to physical therapist services is typically quicker and more affordable than going to the doctor, people can feel comfortable going to the physical therapist as the first choice for managing knee discomfort. If the symptoms continue for longer than one week, recommends checking with Physical therapists to conduct an assessment.
What knee injuries can Physical Therapist Aid With?
If your pain is sudden or chronic, some scenarios that physical therapist could be helpful can be helpful include:
Meniscus tears
Physical therapy can be highly effective in the treatment of meniscal tears, claims knee pain. Recent research has proven that physical therapy isn’t superior to arthroscopic surgery to improve self reported knee functionality for up to 24 months following injury. Based on the study, the amount of function and pain is the same for all patients who have a period of up to 24 month after the meniscal tear regardless if or not they underwent surgery or physical therapy.
Physical therapist typically focuses on stretching and strengthening the muscles surrounding the knees so that they are better shock absorbers in everyday activities. Physical therapists may help modify or alter the way you move to make it more comfortable and less painful things like walking up stairs, squatting, climbing stairs and more.
Sprain of the knee ligament
Treatment is similar to the one for meniscus tears, and may also include bracing to protect the knee, or tapping for the pain and swelling. The physical therapist program will also incorporate strengthening, stretching, and balance training, and gradually increasing exercise so that the patient can be back to the previous level of functioning.
Osteoarthritis
A well planned exercise routine is regarded as a fundamental therapy for knee pain. The focus of physical therapist is on joint protection strategies like bracing and strengthening the knee muscles so that they are able to be able to absorb the force on the knee more effectively in everyday activities. Stretching can also to protect the knee and keep it in the range of motion that is often reduced when suffering from osteoarthritis. Physical therapists may adjust routines or improve the movement patterns so that they are easier to perform and reduce pain, for example, moving up and down the chair. In the end, they’ll design an exercise program at home to help with long term control of knee osteoarthritis.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome
An accurate evaluation is essential in this kind of pain, according to knee osteoarthritis, since many various factors could be contributing and the treatment has to be tailored to the individual. For instance, feet that are flat can result in the patella to move in a wrong direction. In this instance it is possible to use foot orthotics. If weak hips cause knees to turn when doing certain things, hip strengthening exercises can help. Strengthening the quadriceps muscles and hips is the mainstay of Physical therapy treatment for patients suffering from patellofemoral pain syndrome she says.
Physical therapists also treat patients suffering from knee fractures. Often knee injuries can result in people losing the strength and flexibility that physical therapist can aid in recovering pain. Therapists can help patients get used to walking, standing or ascend stairs, and return to normal exercises.
When should you see a doctor immediately
Physical therapy adds that there are certain situations in which you need to see a medical doctor promptly. These include:
It is impossible to put the weight of your knee, or bend it over 90 degrees. You can see obvious signs of deformity in your knee or leg or feel like you knee becomes unstable and prone to tearing. These could be indicators of a injury to ligaments, a fracture or a large meniscal tear. I’d recommend visiting an emergency department or urgent health clinic to have your condition evaluated.
The pain isn’t relieved by anything, not even rest or elevation, icing etc.
Redness and swelling that doesn’t improve when you raise your leg, or experience the severe tenderness in your calves. This may be a sign for a deep vein embolism, and should be assessed promptly.
The appearance of redness and swelling, that are accompanied by general malaise or fever could be an indication of an infection.