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.