Knee Pain
Knees are complex, weight-bearing joints that provide your body with flexibility, support, and a wide range of motion. Because of the knee’s complexity and the amount of use it gets over a lifetime, it is susceptible to injury and is a common site of pain.
Although many knee injuries are caused by overuse, problems with alignment, sports or physical activities, and failure to warm up and stretch before exercise, they can also result from trauma such as a car accident, a fall, or a direct blow to the knee. Depending on the type and severity of joint damage, knee pain can be minor or can lead to severe discomfort and disability.
SSPT’s approach to treating knee pain
You should seek medical advice if you have pain or swelling of the knee that occurs at night or persists more than a few days, a crunching or grinding sound when you place weight on the knee, difficulty bearing weight, loss of motion, or instability.
If you require physical therapy care, your treatment for knee pain may include:
- Joint mobilization
- Modalities such as electrical stimulation, ultrasound, or iontophoresis
- Bracing or assistive devices
- Behavioral modification to decrease wear and tear on the knee
- Assistance with a weight loss program
- Exercises for stretching and strengthening
- Education about behaviors that reduce stress on your knees
Learn more about common conditions involving the knee:
