​ASKPHYSIO

Knee pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages. Knee pain may be the result of an injury, such as a ruptured ligament or torn cartilage. Medical conditions — including arthritis, gout and infections — also can cause knee pain.

If you suspect any of the following, then please contact your doctor or GP immediately:

• A fracture : an inability to weight-bear or walk 4 steps/ severe tenderness along the inside

• A ruptured tendon or muscle: severe weakness and pain, with moderate swelling.

• Wound penetrating the joint.

• Known bleeding disorder.

• Signs of septic arthritis or haemarthrosis: if the joint is moderately swollen or hot and tender/painful to touch.

Signs and symptoms that sometimes accompany knee pain include:

• Swelling and stiffness

• Redness and warmth to the touch

• Weakness or instability

• Popping or crunching noises

• Inability to fully straighten the knee

• Trauma

• Repetitive overload of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and/or joints 

• Taking anti-inflammatories if it is safe for you to take (take anti-inflammatories only if it is a chronic long-term issue, or there is a severe amount of swelling- do not use if there is an acute rupture, strain or sprain.

• Painkiller as long as these are safe for you to take.

• P R I C E: Protect. Rest. Ice. Compress. Elevate.
  Heat packs or hot water bottles may relieve pain and muscle spasm (do not use if red, hot and swollen already).
  Icing for any pain and swelling- no direct ice to skin.
  Compression by self adhesive bandages- follow guidelines- making sure the taping/strapping is breathable and your toes are not loosing circulation by going purple- check regularly.
  Elevation- keep feet elevated above the level of the heart for 30 minutes if moderately swollen.

• Modify or temporarily stop your activities or running.

• Have a gradual return back to exercise.

• Use appropriate footwear- speak to specialists regarding this.

Depends on the severity of the injury.

HOW PHYSIO HELPS?

• Usually consists 6-12 weeks of a personal management plan discussed with your physiotherapist.

• Exercise programmes: aerobic activity, stability and movement advice, muscle strengthening, and proprioception.

• Assessments and screening to determine which structures have been affected and what symptoms can be addressed.

• Foot biomechanics/ footwear review

• Soft tissue massage and trigger point release.

• Acupuncture and dry needling.

• Injury prevention exercises

• Mobilisations and manipulation (manual therapy)

• Referral to an orthopaedic specialist for advice on management with more severe or chronic injuries