Do you suffer from knee pain? Many people do and it can be extremely debilitating. Unfortunately, it’s a very common injury. It is the second most common cause of chronic pain and roughly 20% of American adults struggle with knee pain.
The knees are susceptible to the same types of injuries and conditions as every other joint. They can have a movement disorder (loss of range of motion from a dysfunction in the joint or loss of motor control), they can degrade and break down (arthritis), or the supporting structures (muscles/tendons/ligaments) can be injured. Typically, it is a mixture of all three.
A previous injury to the knee can cause knee instability and muscle imbalances that can lead to osteoarthritis over time if it’s not corrected. A foot problem can cause abnormalities in the way you walk (biomechanics). If the way you walk changes, then the way the knee is being used will change too, creating problems in the knee. Also, lower back problems, especially problems at the sacroiliac joint where the pelvis and hip connect to the spine, can cause imbalances in the muscles associated with knee movement.
Movement disorders, joint restrictions, and degeneration are very common and can sometimes be treated in the same way. The goal is to improve normal range of motion, decrease inflammation (and pain), balance the muscles of the knee, and improve the biomechanics of the knee. We utilize Chiropractic adjustments, muscle stimulation, myofascial release to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments supporting the knee, and we will also show you stretches and exercises to help loosen the tight muscles and strengthen and balance the weak muscles.
Things become a lot more complicated if you have major damage to the supporting structures of the knee (ACL and/or meniscus tears). Typically resulting from sports injuries or major trauma. We can also work with these issues to help support and speed up the healing process. Give us a call to set up an appointment to see what we can do to help improve your knee pain.