Description

Knee injuries or pain are the most common complaint by sports participants. Studies have shown that patellofemoral pain syndrome comprises up to 50% of all overuse injuries. The syndrome is caused by an irritation of the under-surface of the patella (knee cap) or in the tissues surrounding the knee.

The pain is usually a dull pain that seems to come from the deep knee. It is worst with deep knee bend-type sports or activities. Usually there is pain climbing stairs and after sitting for a prolonged period of time.

The patella is a moving bone that glides up and down a groove in the femur (thigh bone) as you bend and straighten your knee. The pain is caused by poor tracking and compression of the patella, leading to inflammation and pain.

Contributing Factors

- Poor knee cap tracking is most common in the people who have wide hips, weak hips, knock knees, or tibial torsion (rotation of the lower leg).

- Flat, pronated feet, especially with poor footwear.

- Overuse syndrome.

- Pelvic or spinal misalignment.

- Weak inner thigh muscles.

- Tight outer knee structures.

- Muscle inflexibilities.

- Previous or repetitive trauma to the knee.

Treatment

This is based on two principles:

- Reducing the inflammation and pain

- Improving the mobility and strength of the whole leg.

Modify Activity

Initially, when the knee is painful and/or swollen you must rest it. Pain should be your guide. Mild discomfort is OK but working through pain will aggravate your condition.

Ice, Ice, Ice and Heat

Ice your knee for 10 – 15 minutes twice a day or any time after it is irritated. This is your best friend. Use frozen peas, crushed ice, or a gel pack (available at our front desk). Heat on the tight tissues (mid or outside thigh) can help relax tense muscles.

Chiropractic Care

- Adjustments of the spine, pelvis, knee and feet to correct misalignments and restore motion.

- Soft tissue treatment (particularly ART/Active Release and or Graston Technique) to loosen tight muscles and adhesions on the outer knee and restore normal tone to the inner knee tissues.

- Electrotherapy & ultrasound to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation.

- Kinesio-Taping or braces may be used to help align the patella properly.

- Nutritional advice and natural anti-inflammatories may be recommended.

- Progressive strengthening and flexibility exercises will be provided.

Physiotherapy Care

- Assessment of joint and ligament function including the knee, hip and ankle

- Soft tissue treatment addressing scar tissue adhesions, inflammation and muscle tightness

- Alignment and strengthening exercises to get the knee cap tracking properly

- Kineseo-Taping or braces may be advised

- Back to sport advice and guidance

- Electrotherapy and ultrasound to reduce pain and inflammation