Knee pain can originate in any of the structures surrounding the kneecap (patella), such as the knee joints, knee cartilages, and knee ligaments (meniscus). Knee pain usually occurs due to acute injuries in these areas, underlying chronic conditions, such as osteoarthritis, or other medical conditions. Diagnosing and understanding the root cause of knee pain is an essential component of your recovery with knee physical therapy.
Knee Physical Therapy
Sprain/Strain
Knee sprains are injuries of the ligaments and knee strains are injuries of the muscles or tendons around the knees. Both strains and sprains occur when the tissues are overstretched, leading to micro-tears and injuries. Sprains and strains are followed by inflammation and mobility problems, necessitating physical therapy.
Knee Pain
The knee is an extremely complex joint that supports the weight of the entire body while facilitating movements with a range of 130 degrees and more. Knee pains usually occur due to the loss of “accessory motions,” i.e., the sliding side-to-side, back-and-forth, spinning, and rotating motions. When the knee isn’t very active, the surrounding tissues tighten, and the muscles weaken, leading to knee pains.
Tendonitis
Knee tendonitis, also known as a jumper’s knee, is a condition wherein the tendon connecting the quadricep muscles to the tibia bone becomes inflamed. This can happen due to poor posture, abnormal joint movements, muscle weakness. Consequently, you experience significant pain while kneeling down, squatting, and performing other repetitive movements with the knees. This can be treated with knee physical therapy.
The Cruciate Ligament Tears
The cruciate ligaments (anterior, posterior, medial, and lateral) are pairs of ligaments that facilitate the smooth sliding of the tibia bone against the femur bone. However, these ligaments can be torn due to sports, injuries, and blows to the knee from the side. A complete ligament tear necessitates surgery, and physical therapy is an essential component of post-surgery recovery and rehabilitation.
Meniscus Injury
The meniscus is the cartilage located on the lower part of the knee, and it’s responsible for ensuring the stability of the knee joint during movements. The meniscus should be smooth to ensure optimal gliding of the knee joint. However, weak muscles, poor spinal alignment, and injuries can tear or injure the meniscus, causing mobility problems.
Knee Replacement
A knee replacement surgery is necessary when the knee suffers major trauma due to injuries or arthritic changes. During the surgery, the ends of the tibia and femur or the back of the patella (or both) are replaced. Physical therapy is an essential component of post-surgery rehabilitation because it helps restore muscle strength, functionality, and mobility.
Schedule an Appointment
Miami Neurology & Rehabilitation Specialists is led by a talented team of physical therapists. We always trace the root cause of your knee pain, consult with your primary physicians and doctors, and curate a comprehensive treatment plan to restore mobility and strengthen your muscles. For more information about knee physical therapy, please schedule an appointment at our medical centers in South Miami, and Kendall, FL.
