Knee

Overview of Knee Physical Therapy

Knee Pain

Knee physical therapy is a specialized form of rehabilitation designed to address various conditions that affect the knee joint, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions like arthritis. The goal of knee physical therapy is to alleviate pain, improve range of motion, strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee, and restore function to help individuals return to their normal activities with less discomfort and greater stability.

Common Conditions Treated in Knee Physical Therapy:

  1. Knee Osteoarthritis – Degeneration of the knee’s cartilage causing pain, swelling, and stiffness, often seen in older adults.
  2. Ligament Injuries – Damage to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), or medial collateral ligament (MCL), typically from sports-related trauma or accidents.
  3. Meniscus Tears – Tears in the cartilage that acts as a cushion in the knee joint, often caused by twisting motions or direct impact.
  4. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome – Pain in the front of the knee, often due to overuse, poor alignment, or muscle imbalances around the knee.
  5. Tendinitis/Bursitis – Inflammation of the tendons or bursa (fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint), which can lead to pain and swelling.
  6. Post-Surgical Recovery – Rehabilitation after knee surgeries like ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair, or total knee replacement (TKA).
  7. Knee Sprains and Strains – Injuries to the ligaments or muscles around the knee joint, typically resulting from trauma or overuse.
  8. Chondromalacia Patella – Softening or damage of the cartilage under the kneecap, leading to pain, especially during activities like climbing stairs or kneeling.

Goals of Knee Physical Therapy:

  • Pain Management: Reduce swelling and inflammation through modalities like ice, heat, or electrical stimulation, and teach self-management strategies for ongoing relief.
  • Improved Range of Motion (ROM): Restore full motion in the knee joint through gentle stretches and mobility exercises to avoid stiffness.
  • Strengthening: Build strength in the muscles surrounding the knee, particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves, to stabilize the joint and improve overall function.
  • Joint Stability and Function: Focus on improving knee stability to reduce the risk of further injury and enhance mobility for daily activities.
  • Posture and Alignment Correction: Correct any abnormal movement patterns or misalignments that may place extra stress on the knee joint.