Knee
Knee Conditions
The knee is one of the most complex joints of the body. The knee joint is made up of a complex arrangement of ligaments, tendons, bone, and fluid that run around the patella. Due to the complex arrangement and frequent use, the knee can suffer musculoskeletal injuries.
Some of these knee injuries are treatable through physiotherapy. Severe cases may require surgical interventions. Here are some common knee conditions which are treatable using osteopathy.
Knee Pain
Knee pain mostly occurs as a symptom of other knee conditions. When any of the knee compartments (the tibia, the femur, the fibula, and the patella) is compromised, the individual will feel pain. Depending on the cause and degree of hurt, the pain can come with swelling and tenderness.
Common knee pain causes include sprain, knee fracture, bursitis, and arthritis. Most cases of knee pain heal quickly with physiotherapy.
Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Osteoarthritis of the knee refers to an inflammation of the knee joint caused by wear or tear of knee cartilage. Knee osteoarthritis is one of the commonest knee conditions, especially among older adults.
The major cause of knee osteoarthritis is sustained stress on the cartilage, causing the bones of the knee to rub against each other. Obesity, pregnancy, and sporting activities are common risk factors of knee arthritis.
Patella Subluxation
In chiropractic theory, a slight misalignment of the vertebrae can lead to many health problems. A misalignment of the patella, known as the patella subluxation occurs repetitively and places a strain on the patellofemoral joint.
Patella subluxation can be caused by torn knee ligament or trochlear dysplasia. Treatment is either through physiotherapy or surgery.
Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral pain syndrome)
Runner’s knee or Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a knee condition in which the back of the patella rubs on the femur causing significant discomfort. Runner’s knee, as the name suggests, mostly affects runners, cyclists, and sportsmen who run a lot. It is mostly caused by a change in the training scheme.
Pain due to runner’s knee increases with activity and can be made worse with the wrong footwear. Symptoms improve with rest and osteopathy.
For best results, physiotherapy should be commenced once a knee condition is suspected. Contact us today for a full assessment of the condition and to commence osteopathic care.