Does Physical Therapy Help Knee Pain?
The knees, as they bear the entire weight of the upper body, often experience a great deal of pressure that may ultimately lead to knee pain and limited mobility. Pain management physicians are now providing effective treatment for knee pain through conservative non-surgical methods. Physical therapy is one of the most sought after treatment methods for this condition. Prior to getting started with this treatment, it is important to know its real cause and the type of pain you experience.
Factors Taken into Consideration to Decide on the Right Treatment You may experience knee pain on the back, front or sides of your knees, and inside or outside the knees. The exact point where you experience the pain is crucial in determining the treatment method. The pain is mainly caused due to a variety of factors, such as trauma, strain, injury or:
Tear of knee cartilage Inflammation Tendinitis Knee dislocation Knee joint infection Knee ligament injury Bone bruises Edema Meniscal tears Internal derangement Sub-articular stress fracture Collection of fluid in the knee joint
Any of the above mentioned factors may be the reason for your knee pain. But sometimes you may find no apparent reason for this pain. However, it is important to determine the type of pain you are experiencing to obtain the right physical therapy treatment. Based on the intensity and duration of your pain, it is categorized as below:
Acute pain – Acute pain usually lasts only for one to seven days after an injury.
You need to give sufficient rest to your knees if you have acute pain. This may help the injured portion to get healed quickly.
Sub-acute pain – This pain lasts for two to three weeks after the injury. You may
initiate gentle motion around your knees to regain your mobility.
Chronic pain – Chronic pain generally lasts more than eight to twelve weeks.
Consult a reliable pain management center immediately, if you have a chronic pain. Otherwise, the condition may worsen.
Diagnosis and Treatment Procedures Physical therapists may examine if your condition is acute or chronic, and the real reason behind the pain. For this, they may conduct an overall physical exam as well as obtain your detailed health history. An X-ray or MRI may be taken to determine the exact condition of your knees. Based on these results, your treatment plans are formulated.
Usually, conventional techniques are applied. Physical therapy with a combination of treatment techniques may work out to be effective for your knee pain. Along with stretching and therapeutic exercises, expert physical therapists/physiciansmay also recommend ice and heat application, pain relieving medications, and prolotherapy injection for speedy recovery. Remember that your knees are the major joints of your body which help to ensure smooth mobility. Therefore, if you experience any painful condition in your knees, seek immediate medical help.
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