Knee Pain: Causes and What You Can Do About It
Knee pain can impact people of all ages and often poses a significant limitation in everyday life. Whether climbing stairs, engaging in sports, or even at rest, knee pain can be a major burden. In this blog, I will explain the most common causes of knee pain, how you can alleviate the discomfort, and how Medico Therapy can help.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Knee Pain?
Knee pain can be caused by a number of things, from injury to age-related wear and tear. The most common causes are:
Overuse and Wear
A frequent cause of knee pain is cartilage wear in the knee joint, also known as osteoarthritis. Years of strain can wear down the cartilage, leading to pain and restricted movement.
Injuries
Sports that involve jumping or rapid direction changes increase the risk of knee injuries such as ligament tears or meniscus damage. The cruciate ligaments and meniscus are often affected, causing severe pain.
Misalignments
Leg misalignments, such as knock-knees or bowlegs, place uneven stress on the knee joints. This often leads to pain and can cause wear over time.
Inflammation
Overuse or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation of the tendons and bursae in the knee. These inflammations are painful and can lead to swelling.
Lack of Movement
A sedentary lifestyle can weaken the muscles surrounding the knee, which are essential for stabilisation and support. Weak muscles can cause instability and, ultimately, pain.
What Can I Do About Knee Pain?
Knee pain does not necessarily have to lead to permanent discomfort. There are many steps you can take to relieve pain and improve knee health. Targeted, personalised treatments like those offered by Medico Therapy can be especially beneficial.
Medico Therapy: Support for Pain-Free Knees
Medico Therapy specialises in treating knee pain and offers tailored therapies that address the root causes of discomfort. Here are some effective methods Medico Therapy provides for knee pain treatment:
01
Targeted Pain and Inflammation Relief
Acute pain and inflammation are treated at Medico Therapy using specialised techniques such as cold therapy and gentle massages. These methods help reduce swelling and pain quickly, easing strain on the knee.
02
Massage and Mobilisation Techniques
Targeted massage around the knee joint relaxes the surrounding muscles and tendons. Mobilisation techniques gently move the joint, improving flexibility. This helps release tension and blockages, reducing strain and pain.
03
Strengthening and Stability Exercises
Medico Therapy offers specific exercises to strengthen and stabilise the muscles around the knee. Strengthening the thigh and calf muscles supports the knee and improves stability. These exercises are customised to the individual and can later be performed at home.
04
Gait and Posture Training
Many knee pain issues stem from poor posture or an inefficient gait pattern. Experts at Medico Therapy analyse movement patterns and provide tips on reducing knee strain. Correcting these patterns can help prevent future pain.
05
Ergonomic Advice for Everyday Life
For individuals who stand or sit for extended periods, Medico Therapy offers ergonomic advice to make daily activities more knee-friendly and prevent overuse. These tips help to reduce and prevent knee pain in the long term.
What Can You Do Yourself?
Alongside professional treatment at Medico Therapy, there are several things you can do to alleviate knee pain and maintain knee health:
Regular Exercise: Gentle sports such as swimming, cycling, or yoga are ideal for keeping the knee mobile and strengthening surrounding muscles. However, avoid high-impact activities like running on hard surfaces or basketball.
Weight Reduction: Every kilogram lost significantly relieves pressure on the knee joint. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce pain and prevent further damage.
Cold and Heat Therapy: For acute pain and swelling, cold applications such as ice packs can help. For chronic pain and tension, heat—such as a warm bath or hot water bottle—can be soothing.
Mindful Movement in Daily Life: Be conscious of avoiding excessive strain on your knee. Lift heavy objects by bending at the knees and avoid sudden, jerky movements.
Conclusion: How Medico Therapy Can Help You
Knee pain can be highly uncomfortable and restrictive, but with the right treatment, symptoms can often be effectively managed. Medico Therapy provides targeted, individualised therapies that address the root causes of knee pain, relieve discomfort, improve stability, and enhance overall well-being.
If you suffer from knee pain, Medico Therapy could help you regain a pain-free and active lifestyle. The experienced specialists at Medico Therapy are ready to assist you and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.