Knee issues are a problem in people of all ages. It can start as a result of a minor injury or after exercise. Often with overuse or exercise induced pain, it will generally resolve in a few days however with sports specific or fall type injuries it may not get better and require an immediate visit with a doctor or physical therapist. In the case of arthritis you will begin with a mild discomfort that slowly its worse over time. Knee pain can also be the result of inactivity or muscle weakness or sitting in positions for prolonged periods of time. There are too many causes of knee pain to discuss them all but in the case of minor pain/nagging pain that lasts longer than a week you should have it evaluated by a medical professional i.e. physical therapist or orthopedist.
Symptoms that sometimes accompany knee issues:
- Stiffness and swelling
- Redness and warmth to the touch
- Weakness or feelings of instability
- Popping or crunching noises
- Inability to fully straighten or bend the knee
As you can see there are many reasons and symptoms associated with knee pain and issues. But lets face it we are all getting older and have spent a lifetime abusing our knees. We don’t even think twice about them when they are healthy but as soon as pain starts to creep in most likely without warning or cause is when we get frustrated. Why? Because we don’t understand what is happening.
Let’s look at the anatomy of the knee.
The knee is comprised of cartilage that covers the surface of long bones which reduces friction as the joint meets during movement. There is a membrane that wraps the joint which produces a synovial fluid which functions to lubricate the joint. There are many ligaments and tendons which provide the stability and power behind the joint. And all joints are comprised of bursa which act as cushions to reduce friction.
So why do I have pain??
Well when all these above structures are healthy we can move freely with strength and power but as normal “wear and tear” or inflammation sets in do we start to experience pain. Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint changes is the leading cause of knee joint pain amongst adults.
So do I have to just live with the pain?
I hear this question all the time. Well the answer is yes and no….you have to understand and adapt to it in order to continue to live an active lifestyle. Physical therapy is the best source to help to do such that without medications or injections. Let the clinicians here at Loudoun Sports Therapy Center help you understand the source of your knee pain and design a strength/stability program around you to help you continue to maintain an active life!
Call Loudoun Sports Therapy Center TODAY at 703-450-4300 to schedule your evaluation and start living pain free again!
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