Knee Pain

Knee pain is often a frustrating and limiting condition when it comes to weight bearing. Here at Forefront Physiotherapy Geelong we understand that knee pain and discomfort can impact many aspects of your life and that is why we are here to help!

The knee is a complex combination of three joints made up of bones, ligaments, muscles and cartilage. It is home to the largest joint in the body, comprising of the hinge between the thigh bone and shin. Although complex, the knee is especially prone to injury as it bears the most weight in the body. This combined with its minimal rotational movement, “stopping and starting” sports such as netball, football, soccer and volleyball put excessive pressure on the tissues of the knee rendering it vulnerable to injury or inflammation.

Common symptoms accompanying knee pain:

• Direct pain to the knee: sharp or dull
• Stiffness
• Referred pain to the hip, thigh, lower leg and foot
• Numbness or tingling
• Inflammation and swelling of the knee joint
• Difficulty walking

Our team at Forefront Physiotherapy Geelong will complete a detailed assessment to assist in the treatment and management of your knee pain. This assessment will help our Geelong sports physios determine the underlying cause of your knee pain and assist in the development of a tailored treatment plan. Treatment methods may include soft tissue therapy, stretching, dry needling, ongoing mobilisation and strengthening.

Common causes of knee pain include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury or sprain
• Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) injury or sprain
• Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) injury or sprain
• Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) injury or sprain
• Meniscus tear
• Fractures
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
• Patellar Tendinopathy
• Kneecap Dislocations
• Bursitis
• Iliotibial Band Syndrome

5 tips to help relieve knee pain:

1. Reduce the inflammation

Inflammation, identifiable as redness and swelling, can greatly contribute to the pain experienced in you knee. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Nurofen or Voltaren and cold pack application, accompanied by compression wraps, can all help to reduce inflammation and subsequent knee pain. Talk to your doctor about whether NSAIDs are appropriate for you.

2. Exercise your knees regularly

Appropriate exercise and stretching can promote strength and improved mobility to an injured knee when it is ready to undergo movement. This should be undertaken with guidance from a trusted sports physiotherapists available at Forefront Physiotherapy Geelong.

3. Take some pain medication

Pain medication may help manage the pain and discomfort caused by an injured knee which can provide welcomed relief and enable sleep. However, it is important to note that pain medication will only mask the injury. Professional diagnosis is necessary to treat what is causing your knee pain. Please consult with your doctor about which medication is appropriate for you.

4. Get some Sleep

Getting enough sleep can assist in reducing knee pain as it enables the body to heal. Conversely, studies show that not getting enough sleep directly increases your perception of pain. Hence, getting a good night’s sleep is paramount to your psychological tolerance of pain and overall perception of well being.

At Forefront Physiotherapy Geelong, our team of experts are able to provide you with tips and information on how to improve your night’s sleep so you are more prepared to take on the day.

5. Book an appointment online

Book a physiotherapy appointment online at Forefront Physiotherapy Geelong and get expert assessment and treatment for your knee pain from one of our sports physios. Forefront Physiotherapy Geelong are experienced in dealing with knees and strive to restore your function and mobility.