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Understanding Knee Pain: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help

Introduction

Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints affecting people of all ages. Whether you're an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone dealing with age-related joint issues, knee pain can disrupt your daily activities and quality of life. Understanding the causes of knee pain and knowing when to seek professional help can make a significant difference in recovery.

In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for knee pain—and explain how physiotherapy can help you get back on your feet.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain can stem from a variety of factors, including injury, overuse, or chronic conditions. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Injuries

  • Ligament tears (e.g., ACL, MCL)

  • Meniscus injuries

  • Tendonitis

  • Patellar dislocation

2. Overuse Conditions

  • Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)

  • Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome

  • Bursitis

3. Arthritis

  • Osteoarthritis: Degenerative wear-and-tear of the knee joint

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition causing inflammation

  • Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Follows an injury to the knee

4. Biomechanical Issues

  • Poor posture or walking mechanics

  • Muscle imbalances or weakness

  • Flat feet or improper footwear

Signs and Symptoms of Knee Pain

Symptoms of knee pain can vary depending on the cause but may include:

  • Swelling and stiffness

  • Redness and warmth

  • Popping or crunching noises

  • Instability or weakness

  • Difficulty straightening or bending the knee

How Physiotherapy Helps with Knee Pain

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective non-invasive treatments for knee pain. A licensed physiotherapist can help you:

  • Reduce pain and inflammation

  • Improve joint mobility and flexibility

  • Strengthen surrounding muscles for better knee support

  • Restore normal gait and movement patterns

  • Prevent future injuries

Physiotherapy treatments for knee pain may include:

  • Manual therapy

  • Customized exercise programs

  • Taping and bracing

  • Electrotherapy (e.g., ultrasound, TENS)

  • Education on posture, footwear, and activity modification

At-Home Tips to Manage Knee Pain

While professional treatment is ideal, you can take steps at home to alleviate mild knee discomfort:

  • Apply ice to reduce inflammation (20 minutes every 2-3 hours)

  • Use compression wraps to limit swelling

  • Elevate your knee when resting

  • Avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping

  • Perform gentle stretching and strengthening exercises

When to See a Physiotherapist or Doctor

It’s important to seek medical attention if:

  • The pain is severe or sudden

  • You can’t put weight on your knee

  • You experience visible deformity or instability

  • Pain persists beyond a few weeks despite rest

  • There is recurring swelling or locking of the joint

A physiotherapist can assess your condition, develop a personalized treatment plan, and help you return to pain-free movement.

Preventing Knee Pain

Prevention is key, especially if you're physically active or have a history of knee issues. Here's how to protect your knees:

  • Warm up before exercise and cool down after

  • Strengthen your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes

  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints

  • Wear supportive footwear

  • Listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain

Conclusion

Knee pain doesn't have to control your life. With early intervention and a proactive approach—especially through physiotherapy—you can regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and return to the activities you love.

If you're experiencing persistent or recurring knee pain, don't wait. Book an appointment with a licensed physiotherapist today and take the first step toward lasting relief.

External Links
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/practitioner-professional-resources/bc-guidelines/managing-patients-with-pain-in-primary-care-part-1

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Overview_of_Knee_Assessment