Knee Pain and Stress

 

The knee is highly susceptible to both traumatic and over-use injuries. The most

common cause of knee pain is due to a problem with the patella (knee cap). Knee pain is often a compensatory problem due to joint dysfunction/immobility in the ankle, hip, or pelvis. Several soft tissue structures can be affected with

knee problems including the anterior and posterior cruciate ligament, medial and lateral meniscus, medial and lateral collateral ligaments and quadriceps muscle/tendon. Tightness in the lateral quadracep muscle and weakness in the medial quadracep muscle is very common and predisposes the knee to injury. The following may be the reason you are experiencing knee pain:

 

• Patellofemoral (knee cap) disorder

• Meniscus/cartilage tear (medial or lateral)

• Osteoarthritis, aka degenerative joint disease

• Iliotibial band syndrome (lateral knee pain)

• Referred pain from the low back, hip or sacroiliac joint

• Quadriceps tendonosis

• Bursitis

• Collateral ligament sprain (medial or lateral)

 

Alternative Chiropractic's treatment approach includes:

 

• Chiropractic spinal and extremity adjustments:  Adjustments help restore normal motion, balance musculature and reduce pain.

• Physiotherapy:  This is used to reduce acute pain and inflammation.

• Muscle and soft tissue techniques:  These help reduce muscle/ligament pain, tightness, adhesions and improve muscle/ligament function.

• Therapeautic exercises:  Specific rehabilitation exercises and assisted stretches are recommended to strenghten weak/inhibited muscles; improve flexibility and range of motion; and prevent re-injury.

• Lifestyle modifications:  Postural and repetitive stress activities may need to be addressed.

 

 

Additional Reading:  Knee Pain and Potential Causes

Additional Reading:  Meniscus Function