There are many different injuries that knees can sustain. From impact and contusion type injuries to repetitive strain type injuries, it is a complex system. It is more than just a simple “hinge-type” joint; It has lateral, medial, and rotational forces that it needs to contend with. Muscles and tendons work together to move the joint through range of motion, along with ligaments that hold stability while these actions are taking place.
Some important red-flags to rule out are meniscus injuries, ligament tears, or other pathologies. Next, we need to diagnose what structures and tissues are involved. Is the joint capsule or the muscle attachment points irritated? Was it an impact injury or unknown cause? is it tied to incorrect gait biomechancs?
During a knee assessment a full physical exam along with specific othopedic tests are performed to confirm the diagnosis and understand the injury to give a prognosis.
After the diagnosis is determined, and if indicated for therapy, we need to apply the treatment to help start the recovery process. We have a few tools to work through many different injuries, including manual mobilization with Active Release Technique or using a instrument assisted technique (Graston). A large component of recovering from knee injuries will be building strength and stability to prevent flair-ups. A home stabilizing program will be given and adherance to the exercise routine is beneficial for full recovery. If needed, laser therapy will be used to help accerate the recovery of tissues that don’t normally heal very quickly (like in the knee).
If you have any more questions about the knee or related structures, ask any one of our talented therapists.