Do you suffer from knee pain?

Do you suffer from knee pain? Here are some questions that are often asked in our clinical practice by our older patients:

Should I get a scan for my knee pain?

Knee osteoarthritis and painful knees can lead to limited levels of activity and confidence in walking and balance. Lately there has been great emphasis on decreasing investigations because it may not change the treatment outcomes. For example, Meniscal tears occur in 63% among those with knee pain on most days and 60% among those without a tear.  (J Engl 2010)

Should I have surgery for my knee Osteoarthritis?

Having surgery is not your only option, regardless how severe the changes are in your joint. Debunking the myths about osteoarthritis is valuable in any of our treatment approach: Pain does not mean damage, rest will not help, and exercise is not dangerous.

What can I do to help my knee pain? 

By tailoring the exercise program, the structures in the knee joint will adapt to the given load, the muscles will get stronger, and the levels of function will improve, leading to an improved quality of life. Here are our top 3 exercises for knee pain:

·        Sit to stand:

choose a sturdy chair, place your feet hip width apart, crossing your arms, get up from the chair and sit back down, using the least help possible from your hands.

·        Knee extensions:

Straighten your leg while sitting on a chair, holding for 10 seconds, repeat.

·        Calf raise:

raise up on your toes, perform as many as possible.

Performing an individualised exercise program will ensure that the joints and supporting muscles will get stronger. As we say in the physio world, ‘Motion is Lotion’!

If you want more information on how physio can help your pain, contact us at West Ryde Physiotherapy, 0298093854 or email at info@westrydephysiotherapy.com.au