Knee Pain is common in all ages. Sometimes knee pain can result from a fall, a sports injury, or from medical conditions such as a strain/sprain or arthritis. Knee pain can occur in different areas, also varying the severity of the pain. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, weakness, instability, popping or crunching noises, and inability to straighten the knee.
A chiropractor can help knee pain resulting from a sprain/strain by using therapeutic ultrasound to relax the muscles, ligaments, and tendons surrounding the knee. A chiropractor will initially use ice if the knee is inflamed. A chiropractor can use tape to stabilize the knee, in addition to a knee brace.
Sometimes an X-Ray is recommended to rule out a broken bone or a dislocation, and/or an MRI can rule out a ligament or meniscus tear.
Knee pain has potential risk factors, making the pain occur more easily. Being overweight causes extra stress on your joints, even when doing everyday tasks such as walking or going up stairs. Certain sports or occupations can also induce knee pain. Such as lifting heavy objects, jumping and pivoting, or the repeated pounding on your knees from running increase the risk of knee injury.
At home, there are steps you can take to help prevent knee pain and promote a healthy lifestyle. Practice the way you exercise by preparing your muscles and practicing the movement and patterns you will make. Get strong and flexible since weak muscles are a leading cause of knee pain. Training in balance and stability help the muscles around your knees to work together effectively. Lastly, be smart while exercising and try not to overexert yourself. Limit your high impact workouts to continue to provide relief and try switching to lower impact activities like swimming.
Always, if your knee pain continues and relief is nonexistence, visit a chiropractor for assistance with your pain.