Why Does My Knee Hurt: All Your Questions Answered

01/15/2025 by Supreet Shah

Why does my knee hurt? If you’ve never asked this question, you’re the rare exception. Almost everyone experiences knee pain at some stage in life. But the knee pain causes are many.

For some, simple home exercises and remedies can provide fast and full knee pain relief. For other causes of knee pain, you’ll need to take more significant steps, like seeing a knee pain doctor. Either way, it’s important to identify the reason for your knee pain so you can stop the pain, restore mobility, and get back to doing the things you love pain-free.

In this post we’ll explore:

How the Knee Works
Why Knees Hurt Where They Do (Side, Back, Kneecap, etc.)
Why Knees Hurt During Certain Activities (Walking, Sitting, Stairs, etc.)
Why Knees Hurt at Certain Times (Nightime, Cold, Rain, etc.)
How A Knee Pain Doctor Can Help

I. How the Knee Works

Your knee is more than just a hinge that allows you to bend and straighten your leg. It’s a complex, weight-bearing joint composed of bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and muscles—all working together to help you move, balance, and absorb shocks.

When even one of these components doesn’t function properly, you can end up asking, “Why does my knee hurt?” Understanding a few key anatomical details will help you see how various issues—ranging from misalignment to wear and tear—can lead to discomfort in different parts of your knee.

According to the Knee Pain Centers of America, 18% of people 18 to 44 experience knee pain, and that rate rises to 37% as people age. 80% of people with osteoarthritis of the knees, a common knee inflammation condition, experience movement limitations.

In fact, knee pain doctor visits represent 1/3 of all visits for musculoskeletal issues.

Basic Structure

Three main bones form your knee joint:

Femur (thighbone): The upper bone that fits into the hip at one end and meets the knee at the other.
Tibia (shinbone): The larger bone of the lower leg forms the main support below the knee.
Patella (kneecap): This small bone sits in front of the knee joint, protecting it and aiding in movement.

Between these bones lie pads of cartilage, known as menisci, which act as shock absorbers. Each meniscus helps spread weight evenly across the joint. Wear or damage to this cartilage can lead to problems like tears, swelling, or pain when you move.

You also have articular cartilage. These form soft caps on the ends of your leg bones. These types of cartilage work together to prevent bone-on-bone rubbing.

Key Supporting Structures

Your knee wouldn’t stay stable without strong bands of connective tissue called ligaments. These ligaments include:

ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) and PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament) inside the joint, preventing forward and backward movement of the tibia relative to the femur.
MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament) and LCL (Lateral Collateral Ligament) on the inner and outer sides of the knee, preventing side-to-side motion and adding stability.

Meanwhile, tendons—particularly the patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon—attach muscles to bones, allowing your knee to straighten and bend under muscular control.

Any strain or inflammation in these structures can be a significant source of knee pain.

How Knee Anatomy Ties to Pain

Because the knee has so many working parts, knee pain can arise from various issues:

Cartilage Damage: Injuries or degeneration in the menisci (shock absorber) and articular cartilage (soft bone caps).
Ligament Sprains or Tears: Overstretching or tearing of the ACL, PCL, MCL, or LCL.
Tendon Problems: Tendonitis or small tears commonly affect the patellar or quadriceps tendon.
Muscular Imbalances: Weaker or overly tight muscles can pull the knee out of proper alignment.
Joint Misalignment: Abnormal walking patterns or posture can strain certain areas of the knee, leading to pain on the inside, outside, front, or back of the joint.

A solid grasp of knee anatomy reveals why so many factors can contribute to discomfort.

By pinpointing which part of this intricate system is at fault, we can start to answer the big question: “Why does my knee hurt?”

II. Location-Based Knee Pain Answers

Pain can strike any part of your knee—front, back, sides, or even underneath the kneecap. By focusing on where the pain is, you can narrow down possible knee pain causes. This section addresses each location-based question in detail, helping you pinpoint what might be going on inside your knee.

Why Does My Knee Hurt in the Back?

Pain in the back of your knee could stem from a Baker’s cyst. It’s named after the person who discovered it, not because you get it from baking sourdough. This fluid-filled swelling often appears after knee joint damage or inflammation.

It may also relate to strained hamstring tendons, especially if you’ve been doing a lot of running, biking, or other activities involving repetitive knee bending. In some cases, arthritis can cause swelling in the rear part of the joint, leading to persistent aches or stiffness.

If the pain persists, a professional evaluation can determine if there’s a cyst, tendon injury, or other inflammation.

It’s important to rule out more serious causes before deciding on a treatment plan.

Why Does My Knee Hurt on the Side?

Pain on the knee’s outer side (called: lateral knee pain) can be due to lateral collateral ligament (LCL) strain, which happens if you twist your knee awkwardly or sustain a direct hit. Another frequent cause is iliotibial (IT) band syndrome, where the thick band of tissue running along the outer thigh becomes irritated. This often appears in runners or cyclists who increase mileage too quickly.

Lateral meniscus tears can also lead to side knee pain. If you hear a clicking or popping when you move, consider getting an exam to find out if there’s a tear or cartilage damage.

Why Does My Knee Hurt on the Inside?

Pain on the inside of the knee (called: medial knee pain) often suggests issues with the medial meniscus. This is the C-shaped cartilage that cushions the inner part of the joint. A tear here may lead to swelling, tenderness, and limited range of motion. Another possible culprit is a sprain or strain of the medial collateral ligament (MCL), which stabilizes the inner knee.

Less obvious causes include pes anserine bursitis, where inflammation occurs on the inside of the tibia just below the joint. If you notice stiffness, swelling, or pain when you rotate or pivot, you may need imaging or a clinical exam to confirm the exact problem.

At Truspine Chiropractic, our team can order imaging tests, including MRIs, CTs and X-rays, to view the knee structure and identify the root cause of your knee pain. This allows our knee pain doctors to develop a treatment plan that addresses the cause so you can experience faster and more complete healing and knee pain relief.

To get your comprehensive knee pain evaluation and first treatment, schedule an initial consultation.

Why Does My Knee Hurt on the Outside?

When the outer part of the joint hurts, it might be the lateral meniscus, the LCL, or that ever-troublesome IT band. Overuse from running or high-impact sports can lead to inflammation in this area. If you have a job that involves twisting movements or sudden turns, your lateral structures may also get strained.

A chiropractic evaluation can help distinguish between ligament, tendon, or cartilage issues on the outside of your knee.

Identifying the root cause is key to effective, targeted treatment.

Why Does My Knee Hurt Behind It?

Pain “behind” the knee can sound similar to “in the back” but may be slightly different anatomically. For instance, a bursitis or tendon irritation closer to the joint line can make the pain feel deeper than that back of the knee pain we described earlier. Swelling in this region might also suggest internal knee joint damage pressing on nearby tissues.

When in doubt, a thorough evaluation by a knee pain doctor ensures you’re not missing anything, like a subtle ligament sprain or small meniscal tear that can cause occasional flare-ups.

Why Does My Kneecap Hurt?

Pain at or around the kneecap, also known as runner’s knee or patellofemoral pain syndrome, is common when the patella doesn’t track smoothly over the femur. Squatting, climbing stairs, or simply bending the knee can become uncomfortable. Sometimes, the cartilage under the kneecap softens or wears down (chondromalacia patella), causing a grinding sensation.

Patellar tendonitis is another possibility, especially if you’ve been jumping or doing repetitive squats. This inflammation of the tendon connecting your kneecap to your shinbone can lead to localized tenderness.

Why Does My Knee Hurt on the Right Side vs. Left Side?

Sometimes, knee pain is consistently on only one side—your right or left. This could be due to leg-length discrepancies, where one leg is slightly shorter, causing uneven stress on a single knee. Muscle imbalances or old injuries on one side can also lead you to bear weight unevenly.

Have you recently started a sit-stand routine to be less sedentary? Or do you work in retail, education, or food services, where you stand a lot? You might notice your weight shifts more to one leg while you’re standing in one place focused on work. This puts extra strain on the knee on one side of the body. It can stretch and damage the ligament as it tries to keep the knee from bending sideways under pressure.

If you notice you always favor one leg, keep track of when and how pain flares up. A gait analysis can reveal posture and alignment problems, helping you correct any asymmetry before it causes ongoing knee trouble.

Finally, find out what’s causing your knee pain. Non-invasive knee pain solutions await. Schedule an initial consultation.

Why Does My Knee Hurt Under My Kneecap?

Pain under the kneecap typically points to patellar (kneecap) tracking issues or inflammation in the tendons just beneath the patella. When the patella doesn’t move correctly, it grates on the cartilage underneath, which can become a source of chronic pain. Sometimes, fluid or swelling builds in the infrapatellar bursa, causing discomfort beneath the kneecap.

A professional assessment can help you figure out if your pain stems from the tendon, the cartilage, or both. Treatment often involves strengthening exercises, rest, and proper alignment techniques during activities.

Why Does My Knee Hurt in the Front?

Pain in the front often overlaps with kneecap-related issues. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a leading cause, especially if you feel aches when climbing stairs or sitting for long periods. Repetitive movements that stress the patellar tendon—like running and jumping—can also spark front-of-knee irritation.

Knowing exactly where the pain localizes (above, below, or around the patella) can guide you toward solutions like exercises, orthotics, or chiropractic adjustments. Front-of-knee pain can improve significantly once you address the mechanical issues at play.

Whether you’re experiencing pain on one side, front/back, inside/outside, seeing a knee pain doctor at Truspine Chiropractic helps you get to the root cause of the pain. We can help you restore balance, regrow cartilage, and address knee inflammation and injuries causing you pain.

To get your comprehensive knee pain evaluation and first Knee on Trac knee treatment, schedule an initial consultation.

III: Activity And Movement-Based Knee Pain Answers

Everyday activities—like walking, sitting, climbing stairs, or even running—can reveal a lot about what’s going on inside your knee. When discomfort appears specifically during or after certain movements, it often points to underlying mechanical issues, inflammation, or wear-and-tear in key structures.

Why Does My Knee Hurt Going Down Stairs?

Going downstairs puts extra stress on the patellofemoral joint (where the kneecap meets the thighbone). As you descend, your body weight shifts forward, and your quadriceps work harder to stabilize the knee. This added pressure can irritate the cartilage under your kneecap, leading to sharp or dull pain.

If you have patellar tracking problems, weak quadriceps, or pre-existing knee issues like arthritis, going downstairs can feel especially challenging—even excruciating. Strengthening exercises for your quads and hips—plus ensuring good alignment—often help reduce this discomfort.

Why Does My Knee Hurt Going Up Stairs?

Climbing upstairs puts a similar but slightly different type of load on your knee joint. The strain on the front of the knee can aggravate conditions like patellofemoral pain syndrome or patellar tendonitis. If your knees aren’t tracking properly, each step may grind the kneecap against the femur, creating pain. You might even feel a grinding sensation as structures rub against each other.

Exercises that focus on balancing your leg muscles and improving hip stability can make a real difference. A chiropractor can also help identify any misalignments that heighten this discomfort.

Why Does My Knee Hurt After Sitting?

Have you ever stood up after a long movie or car ride and felt an ache in your knees? That’s often referred to as the “theater sign” or “movie-goer’s knee,” closely tied to patellofemoral pain syndrome. When your knees stay bent for a long time, the pressure behind the kneecap can cause pain or stiffness.

Additionally, those who sit for very long hours, like people with desk jobs, lose lubrication in their knees as they stay in more-or-less one position for two, four, and sometimes eight hours. Lack of lubrication increases the rate at which cartilage breaks down and can exacerbate the stiffness and pain after prolonged sitting.

If your pain lingers once you start moving, you could be dealing with arthritis or soft tissue inflammation. Try consistently stretching your quads and hamstrings, as well as taking regular breaks to stand and walk. If possible, extend one or both legs every several minutes to keep the joints lubricated and to relieve that pressure.

Even a few seconds in a different position every 30 minutes can reduce the risk that you experience this phenomenon. Obviously, we’d like to see you getting up and moving around for five minutes every hour or so if you’re sitting for longer than it takes to watch a movie.

You’ll feel even better if you make THIS a habit!

Why Does My Knee Hurt After Walking?

Walking, while generally healthy, can still stress your knee if there’s an underlying weakness or alignment issue. Overpronation (rolling inward at the ankle), unsupportive footwear, or a sudden increase in distance can cause overuse injuries. Conditions like patellar tendonitis, meniscus irritation, or ligament strains may flare up after longer walks.

Addressing foot mechanics, maintaining a moderate walking pace, and gradually increasing your mileage are simple ways to reduce post-walk discomfort. If pain remains constant, a professional evaluation is your next step.

Schedule an initial consultation.

Why Does My Knee Hurt After Squats?

Squats are a staple exercise for lower-body strength but can be tough on the knees. Improper form—like letting your knees drift too far forward, out, or in—can overload the joint. If you lack hip or core stability, you may be a little wobbly as you go down. This places extra stress on your tendons and ligaments around the kneecap.

It’s definitely something you can overcome by strengthening your legs.

But that may require you to do leg exercises that don’t carry your entire body weight.

Common culprits behind post-squat pain include patellar tendonitis, meniscal strains, or tracking problems. Working with a trainer or chiropractor to perfect your squat form can reduce the likelihood of injury.

The knee pain doctors at Truspine Chiropractic take time to demonstrate proper form when lifting, squatting, walking, and more. We want you to experience complete and profound relief from your knee pain. And very often, that starts with fixing a balance, form, or structural issue.

You deserve to live pain-free! To get your comprehensive knee pain evaluation and first Knee on Trac, schedule an initial consultation.

Why Does My Knee Hurt So Bad After Running?

Running is high-impact, subjecting your knees to repetitive stress. Overuse injuries like patellar tendonitis, iliotibial (IT) band syndrome, or meniscus strains are common among runners—particularly when increasing distance or intensity too fast. If your shoes are worn or don’t match your foot type, your knees may take a beating.

Runner’s knee, also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), is a common condition where pain develops on or under the kneecap. It’s generally the result of musculoskeletal imbalances that can be fixed.

Knee pain after running is not normal. If you love to run, you deserve to keep doing what you love without pain.

Rest, ice, and gentle stretching can relieve minor flare-ups. It’s also smart to analyze your running form, replace your footwear regularly, and incorporate strength training to stabilize your knees.

Why Does My Knee Cap Hurt When I Bend It?

Bending your knee requires smooth gliding of the kneecap along the femoral groove. If something interrupts that glide—like cartilage damage or tight tissues around the kneecap—you might feel pain, popping, or grinding. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a frequent cause, especially among runners or those who do a lot of knee-bending activities.

Strengthening exercises for the quads and hips, as well as techniques to improve patellar tracking, can bring relief. If bending the knee remains problematic, an assessment can pinpoint the exact cause.

IV. Environmental And Situational Knee Pain Answers

Knee pain isn’t only about what you do; it can also reflect the conditions you’re in. From chilly weather to prolonged stillness, certain scenarios can aggravate discomfort. Let’s tackle how environmental factors and specific situations might trigger knee pain.

Why Does My Knee Hurt in the Cold?

You’ve likely heard someone say, “My knee hurts because it’s cold outside.” There’s some truth to this. Colder temperatures can cause your joints and surrounding tissues to tighten, reducing blood flow. As a result, synovial fluid—which cushions your knee—may thicken, making movement less smooth and more painful.

Dressing warmly and doing light warm-ups before going outside can help. Using a knee sleeve or compression brace can also keep the joint warm and supported. If you consistently feel worse in low temperatures, you might have underlying joint inflammation or arthritis that reacts strongly to the weather.

Why Does My Knee Hurt When It Rains?

Some people’s joints become more sensitive when the barometric pressure drops before a storm, though the exact reasons aren’t fully understood. Some people say they can feel “a storm coming” because their knees ache.

If your knees ache before or during rain, focus on anti-inflammatory strategies like nutrition and leg strengthening while also considering that you may have a structural issue making the inflammation and pain worse.

Why Does My Knee Hurt All the Time?

If you find yourself asking this, chances are your knee pain has turned into more than an occasional ache. Here are a few key reasons why it might be constant:

Chronic Conditions: Arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis) can cause persistent inflammation. If left untreated, it may wear down cartilage and lead to ongoing discomfort.
Untreated Injuries: A sprain or tear that never fully healed can evolve into chronic pain, affecting daily activities.
Misalignment or Postural Issues: Poor walking gait or an imbalanced pelvis puts extra pressure on your knees, causing a near-constant ache.
Overuse and Repetitive Strain: People who stand or walk for extended periods—either at work or during sports—may develop lingering pain due to overuse.

If your knee pain feels permanent, it’s time for a professional evaluation. Long-standing problems rarely go away on their own, and a thorough exam is crucial for customized knee pain treatment.

To get the personalized knee pain treatment that you need to live actively and well and schedule an initial consultation.

Why Does My Knee Hurt in the Morning?

Morning knee pain often indicates stiffness or inflammation that has built up overnight. Conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or even mild tendonitis can feel worse after hours of limited movement. As you start moving around, blood flow improves, helping ease discomfort.

If morning pain persists or intensifies, consider an evaluation. Early-stage arthritis or other chronic inflammatory issues benefit from prompt care before they progress.

Why Does My Knee Hurt Only at Night?

Nighttime knee pain can have several causes. Inflammation from daytime activity might peak when you finally rest. Bursitis, tendonitis, or certain forms of arthritis can become more pronounced once you’re off your feet. Additionally, lying flat might alter knee circulation or nerve pathways, triggering pain.

Keeping a log of when and how the pain occurs can help your knee pain doctor identify patterns—like particular sleeping positions or late-night activity—that worsen symptoms.

Why Does My Knee Hurt So Bad at Night?

If your knee pain is especially severe, you might be dealing with advanced arthritis or a significant injury like a meniscal tear. Swelling in the joint, combined with inactivity while you’re lying down, can make sensations feel more intense. In some cases, nerve irritation also flares up when joints aren’t moving.

Using supportive pillows, gently stretching before bed, and elevating the knee might offer relief. If the pain disrupts your sleep consistently, it’s likely time for professional help to investigate underlying causes.

Recognizing how activity and time of day impact your knee can shine a light on what’s truly behind the discomfort. By matching these clues with the right interventions—adjusting your workout routine, improving your form, or seeking specialized care—you’re closer to overcoming that nagging question: “Why does my knee hurt?”

Why Does My Knee Hurt Randomly?

Sudden or “out-of-the-blue” knee pain can be confusing, especially when you haven’t changed your daily routine. Here’s what might be happening:

Flare-Ups of Old Injuries: Even if an injury seemed to heal, the affected tissues may remain vulnerable and cause occasional pain.
Muscle Imbalances: If your quads and hamstrings are not equally strong, your knee joint might be pulled out of its optimal alignment at unexpected times.
Lifestyle or Minor Overuse: A simple walk on uneven ground or an impromptu run without warming up could trigger pain if your knee wasn’t prepared for it.

Random knee pain doesn’t necessarily mean severe damage is lurking. But it does hint that something isn’t quite right—either structurally or in your movement patterns.

Why Would My Knee Hurt for No Reason?

If there’s pain yet you can’t pinpoint an obvious cause—no recent injury, no intense workout—the culprit could be hidden or subtle:

Early Wear and Tear: Degeneration of joint cartilage often starts slowly, so you might not notice it until it becomes painful.
Low-Grade Inflammation: Low levels of swelling can linger in the joint, especially if there’s an underlying issue like mild arthritis or a past sprain.
Metabolic or Systemic Conditions: Sometimes, conditions like diabetes or thyroid imbalances contribute to joint pain, even if they don’t directly target the knee.

When knee pain seems to come “out of nowhere,” it’s still worth mentioning to your knee pain doctor. Often, there’s a root cause just waiting to be uncovered.

V. Possible Reasons for Knee Pain

Knee pain doesn’t always stem from a single, obvious injury. Sometimes, multiple factors—from your exercise habits to underlying health conditions—converge to create discomfort. Understanding these possible reasons can help you recognize when your lifestyle choices or physical misalignments might contribute to persistent knee troubles.

Overuse and Repetitive Stress

Daily activities like running, squatting, or climbing stairs can place repetitive stress on your knees. If you ramp up your mileage too quickly or repeatedly bend your knees under significant weight, small injuries can accumulate over time. Tendonitis and strains often develop when the body doesn’t get enough rest between workouts.

A key preventive measure is balancing activity with recovery—stretching, proper warm-ups, and rest days. If overuse injuries keep flaring up, consider re-evaluating your form or workout routine with a healthcare professional or coach.

Age-Related Degeneration

As you get older, your cartilage naturally thins, and your joints may lose some of their cushioning ability. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in older adults, often causing stiffness and pain that worsen after inactivity or in cold weather. While age-related wear and tear is normal, early intervention can slow its progression.

Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active with low-impact exercises—like swimming or cycling—can help preserve cartilage health. Regular chiropractic visits may also relieve some of the stress on your knees by promoting better joint alignment.

Trauma or Acute Injuries

A sudden twist, fall, or direct impact can lead to ligament sprains, muscle strains, or even fractures. Sports injuries often involve tears to the ACL or meniscus, causing immediate swelling and pain. Prompt diagnosis is crucial, as untreated injuries can worsen and potentially become chronic.

If you suspect a traumatic injury, use the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation) as first aid. Seek professional evaluation to determine the severity of the damage and to prevent long-term complications.

You deserve to pursue the active, pain-free lifestyle you want to live. To get your comprehensive knee pain evaluation and first Knee on Trac, schedule an initial consultation.

Alignment and Gait Issues

Misalignments in your hips, spine, or feet can shift how you distribute weight across your knees. Over time, incorrect gait patterns can contribute to uneven wear on cartilage and ligaments. Bow-legged or knock-kneed postures, for example, put extra stress on specific parts of the joint.

A gait analysis can reveal whether you’re unintentionally favoring one leg or turning your feet in a way that strains the knee. Correcting alignment often involves targeted exercises, orthotics, or chiropractic adjustments to restore proper posture.

Systemic Conditions

Certain diseases and conditions can influence knee health. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, can cause joint swelling and intense pain. Lupus, gout, and even psoriasis can have similar effects. If your knee pain fluctuates with overall flare-ups or is accompanied by other systemic symptoms—like fatigue or fever—you might need a more comprehensive medical evaluation.

In some cases, managing the underlying condition through diet, lifestyle adjustments, and, when needed, medication can significantly reduce knee discomfort.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Your joints rely on a consistent supply of nutrients—like vitamin D, calcium, and collagen—to maintain bone density and cartilage strength. Diets low in these nutrients may leave you more vulnerable to joint aches and slow recovery after minor injuries.

Consider getting your vitamin levels checked if you experience unexplained pain or if you follow a restricted diet. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods—such as leafy greens, berries, winter squashes, turmeric, ginger, and omega–3–rich foods—can also support overall joint health.

Lifestyle Factors

Habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can inhibit healing and exacerbate inflammation. Obesity adds stress to the knee joint, making pain more likely in everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs. Sedentary lifestyles also contribute to weaker muscles and stiffer joints, both of which can accelerate knee problems.

Taking small steps—like adopting a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and incorporating moderate exercise—helps lessen your risk of knee pain and supports a healthier, more active life.

When it comes to knee discomfort, pinpointing the root cause isn’t always straightforward. Often, it’s a blend of factors—age, physical strain, alignment issues, or underlying conditions. By exploring how these reasons might interact in your life, you’re more likely to uncover effective solutions, whether that’s changing your workout routine, getting fitted for orthotics, or consulting a knee pain doctor for a thorough examination.

In other words, the vast majority of knee pain is caused by structural issues, damaged tissues, and lost cartilage. Truspine Chiropractors are knee pain doctors who specialize in treating these kinds of issues by addressing the cause of the pain.

In most cases, you can become knee pain-free without potentially harmful medications or surgery.

It’s time to live pain-free without invasive surgeries. To get your comprehensive knee pain evaluation and first Knee on Trac, schedule an initial consultation.

VI: How Chiropractors Treat Knee Pain

Conventional approaches to knee pain often revolve around pain relievers, injections, or surgery. While these methods can bring temporary relief, they don’t always tackle the root cause. For example, an invasive knee surgery might fix the issue for now. But if you’re continuing to move in ways that put uneven stress on the knee, the injury is probable. That knee pain surgery that once provided relief starts feeling like your knee before—or worse.

Chiropractic care offers a holistic, non-invasive alternative. By focusing on alignment and biomechanics, chiropractors aim to restore the body’s natural balance so the knee can function more efficiently and heal more effectively.

Chiropractors look at how the entire musculoskeletal system works together. If your spine or hips are misaligned, your knees may bear uneven weight with every step or prolonged standing, leading to chronic pain or recurrent injuries.

We don’t mask discomfort with medication. Chiropractic adjustments address alignment to reduce stress on the knee joint.

Truspine’s Approach to Knee Pain

At Truspine, we start with a thorough assessment of your posture, gait, and lifestyle habits. If we might find you have tight quads, weak glutes or misalignments in the hips or spine —that may be straining your knees— We’ll create a customized plan. This might include:

Manual Adjustments: Aimed at correcting misalignments in the spine or pelvis that affect knee mechanics.
Soft Tissue Therapies: Techniques like myofascial release can reduce tension in the muscles and tendons around the knee.
Targeted Exercises: Strengthening the hips, core, and thighs can relieve pressure on the knee.
Lifestyle and Posture Coaching: Small changes, such as adjusting how you stand, sit, or walk, can have a big impact on knee health.
Cold Laser Therapy: Non-invasive light therapy can reduce inflammation and speed healing.
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM): Tools like Graston Technique help break down scar tissue and improve circulation around the knee.
Rehabilitative Exercises: Custom exercises that strengthen stabilizing muscles, promoting a balanced knee joint.
Knee on Trac^TM: Many believe that once cartilage is gone, that’s it! But that simply isn’t true. Cartilage grows new and healthier tissues in the right environment. Knee on Trac is a specialized cartilage-restoring device that gently increases the space in your knees. This encourages cartilage to expand and grow into the space.

Download our Knee on Trac Brochure.

Learn all about the conditions treated, benefits and contraindications.

Addressing the Root Cause

At the end of the day, a chiropractor works to find the root cause, correct it, and stop the pain.

Sometimes, knee pain develops because of foot issues—like fallen arches—or hip imbalances that alter your leg’s alignment. A chiropractor’s job is to pinpoint those underlying problems. By restoring proper movement patterns, chiropractic care may help you avoid repetitive injuries and long-term joint damage.

Get the Pain Relief You Deserve

At Truspine, our knee pain doctors are here to help you get to the root cause of your knee pain. Through non-invasive and innovative knee pain treatments, we can slow and reverse cartilage loss, reduce inflammation, and restore proper movement patterns without dependence on medication.

It’s time to get the knee pain relief you deserve. To get your comprehensive knee pain evaluation and first Knee on Trac, schedule an initial consultation.

Knee Pain Doctor: Your Guide to Finding Relief

11/30/202411/30/2024 by Supreet Shah

Knee pain can stop you in your tracks, making everyday tasks feel impossible and unbearable. Loss of mobility leads to loss of enjoyment of life, and often depression. It puts a damper on everything from spending time with loved ones to trying to do the laundry. A knee pain doctor can help!

But choosing a knee pain doctor near me is an important first step to finding relief. But if you’ve Googled knee pain doctor near me and feel overwhelmed, you’re not alone.

That’s precisely why I decided to create the knee doctor guide. Read on to learn how doctors treat knee pain in San Francisco. What doctor checks knee pain of unknown knee pain causes? And how to get on the fastest track to pain relief and restore function, so you can get back to living the active lifestyle you want.

What Causes Knee Pain?

At TruSpine, we believe in identifying and addressing the underlying reasons for your discomfort to create a tailored treatment plan. Here are some of those potential causes, each of which may require a different type of knee pain doctor.

Injuries

Knee injuries are among the most common causes of severe pain. These can result from accidents, sports, or overuse. Common injury-related conditions include:

Ligament Tears: Injuries to the ACL, MCL, or PCL can cause instability and sharp pain.
Meniscus Tears: Damage to the knee’s cartilage can lead to swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving.
Tendon Injuries: Overuse or strain can inflame tendons, causing conditions like tendinitis.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a leading cause of chronic knee pain. It occurs when the joint’s protective cartilage wears down or becomes inflamed. The most common types affecting the knee are:

Osteoarthritis: Caused by wear and tear, leading to stiffness and reduced mobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that inflames the joint lining.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Develops after an injury, even years later.

While arthritis can be a degenerative chronic condition, it’s also important to note that factors like lifestyle, diet, and yes, carrying extra weight can all make it worse and help it progress faster. Even those with substantial knee damage can stop and reverse the damage.

Some knee pain doctors believe this damage is irreversible—and a life sentence of harsh pain medicine. But others know your knees can heal themselves, substantially reducing pain and restoring mobility. As you explore knee pain doctors near me, it’s important to consider which one you’d rather work with.

Overuse and Repetitive Stress

Repetitive motions or prolonged activity can lead to overuse injuries, especially in athletes and active individuals. Common overuse conditions include:

Patellar Tendinitis: Also known as “jumper’s knee,” it is caused by stress on the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone.
Runner’s Knee: Pain around the kneecap from improper tracking or overuse.

Muscle Imbalances

Weak or tight muscles around the knee can create uneven pressure on the joint.

This imbalance can cause pain and increase the risk of injury. Common culprits include:

Weak quadriceps or hamstrings
Tight hip flexors or calves

Obesity

Excess weight places additional strain on your knees. Over time, this can accelerate cartilage breakdown and lead to chronic pain or arthritis. Whether you have weight loss goals or not, a knee pain doctor will support your goals to reduce knee pain. But if you are carrying significant extra weight (muscle or fat), losing some weight can certainly help.

According to the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, when you walk, you place roughly 1.5X your weight across your knees. Running puts 4X the weight on the knees. Going upstairs adds 2-3X the weight. Squatting adds 4-5X your body weight. So, someone who weighs 200 lb could potentially put 800+ lbs of weight on their knees. Ouch!

Structural Issues

Sometimes, knee pain arises from the way your body is built or moves. Examples include:

Flat Feet or Overpronation: Can alter your gait and put extra stress on your knees.
Misalignments: Spinal or pelvic imbalances can transfer stress to the knees, leading to discomfort.

This may result in medial knee pain (inner knee), lateral knee pain (outside of the knee), or general discomfort when walking or going up and down stairs.

Aging

As you age, your joints naturally lose strength and flexibility. Cartilage thins, and recovery slows, making you more susceptible to knee pain. With that said, your lifestyle and how you care for your knees can significantly impact how your knees develop as you age. You can have healthy knees well into your 90s and beyond. If you’re interested in having the freedom to move without pain as you age, this is definitely something to discuss with your knee pain doctor.

A Knee Pain Doctor Is Called What?

When knee pain strikes, you might wonder, “A knee pain doctor is called what?” The answer isn’t always straightforward. Some knee pain doctors specialize in knee pain prevention or recovery from sports injuries. Others work more with people with wear and tear-related issues like lost cartilage.

Yet others perform knee surgeries, while yet another type of knee pain doctor’s primary role is managing the pain with medications—some with some miserable side effects.

A lot of the confusion comes from the fact that many people with knee pain don’t know what’s causing it. If they don’t know what kind of treatment they might need, how can they choose? I will provide you with a simple answer. But first, let’s look at what each type of knee pain doctor does.

Knee Pain: What Doctor to See?

Several types of doctors can diagnose and treat knee pain. Each takes a varied approach and set of skills. They also often have different philosophies for managing knee pain. Depending on the cause and severity of your knee pain, you may need to work with one or more of these knee pain specialists.

Orthopedists / Orthopedic Surgeons

Role: This is a knee pain doctor who specializes in the bone and joints, including the knee.
Expertise: They perform comprehensive diagnostic exams on the knee and may recommend interventions such as weight loss, low-impact exercise, chiropractic care, ultrasound therapy, surgery, pain medicine, anti-inflammatory medications, and steroids to promote faster healing.
What They Treat: The knee pain they treat is often severe and may result from a serious injury like a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) or severe bodily misalignment. Those with wear and tear injuries or cartilage reduction might also go to see them, hoping for some relief. In this case, the orthopedist may recommend something drastic like a knee replacement or a cartilage replacement surgery. But this isn’t the best place to start your journey to knee pain relief. And many patients find themselves caught in a whirlwind, barreling toward this expensive, painful, and life-disrupting surgery. There are better options.
Their Philosophy: I can’t speak for all orthopedists. Some will try less invasive treatments first to see if you get adequate relief. Many of these only mask symptoms and don’t actually promote knee healing—which is possible and can provide a lifetime of relief. Other orthopedists may tell you that surgery is your only option.

Knee Pain Doctor Chiropractor

Role: Chiropractors specialize in bone and joint health and can help alleviate pain through adjustments, therapy, and personalized care. They aim to restore your mobility without relying on surgery or medications long-term. They focus on how the whole musculoskeletal system impacts the knees, providing non-invasive treatments that address the root cause of your discomfort.
Expertise: A chiropractic knee pain doctor can also perform a comprehensive exam, including advanced imaging like MRI or CT, to ensure they fully understand the cause of your knee pain.
What They Treat: They can treat knee pain resulting from an injury, post-surgery, wear-and-tear, arthritis, aging, musculoskeletal misalignments, and cartilage loss. Based on your needs, they can personalize a treatment to address the root cause of the knee pain. Sometimes, the root cause is a serious injury that does require surgical intervention. But more often than not, less-invasive treatments can promote natural healing and eliminate the pain—in less time than you think. Chiropractors use innovative and proven treatments to support the human body’s natural ability to heal itself. These might include chiropractic adjustments, knee strengthening exercises, nutrition, tissue-stimulating ultrasound therapy, Graston Technique, and Knee on Trac. Keep reading: Graston Technique for Pain Relief
Their Philosophy: A chiropractor is a functional medicine specialist who knows that many conditions that modern medicine treats with medication and surgery can be treated by helping the body heal itself. For example, misalignments in the spine can lead to an imbalance when standing and walking. This puts added pressure on the knees with every movement and can cause uneven wear and tear. By restoring alignment and stimulating your knee’s natural ability to regenerate, a chiropractor can turn what an orthopedist may think of as a chronic, irreversible condition into one very healthy set of knees.

You can Schedule a knee pain assessment and get your first Knee on Trac treatment the same day if your diagnosis calls for it.

Pain Management Knee Pain Doctor

Role: This specialist specifically supports people who have acute or chronic pain. Their job is to prescribe medications to keep a patient comfortable while striking a balance with the ability to function in daily life. This is easier said than done! Many pain medications impact reaction time, memory, mood, and cognition in negative ways. And some can worsen a condition when taken long term.
Expertise: They may prescribe medications that a patient will continue to take for the rest of their life. Because pain medications lose effectiveness over time, they must continually adjust the dose and try to find new combinations to provide relief.
What They Treat: They work with patients living with debilitating pain from an injury or illness that may not be treatable or reversible.
Their Philosophy: The general way of thinking for a pain management doctor is: Let’s keep the patient comfortable since there’s not much more we can do for them.

which doctor for knee pain: A Multi-disciplinary Approach

What doctor treats knee pain? Which doctor specializes in knees? The answer: Each of these doctors does.

They have different philosophies and sets of skills. If you have miserable knee pain, you may need to see more than one doctor. Chiropractors, Orthopedists, and Pain Management Doctors often work together to support your healing journey—each using their strengths to address your unique needs.

For example, in the case of a torn ACL, an orthopedic surgeon may perform surgery before referring the patient to a chiropractor for ongoing knee strengthening to promote proper healing. After knee surgery, it’s critical to get the knee moving as quickly as possible so that it heals correctly. Scheduling regular visits with your chiropractor can also ensure the knee stays aligned and strong—preventing re-injury or other sports injuries.

During this time, you may also need to take medications for a time. As the knee recovers, your pain management doctor can wean you off the medication until you’re healthy and drug-free.

So, where do you start?

which doctor to consult: Who to See First

If you prefer a natural, drug-free approach, a chiropractor might be your best choice. Regardless of what you think caused your knee pain, starting here ensures you don’t find yourself ushered off toward surgery or a lifetime of pain meds if a less-invasive option would have done the job.

As a chiropractor, I can order the same imaging tests an orthopedist would. I can assess the cause of your knee pain. I can develop a knee pain treatment plan to treat the root cause while helping you get knee pain relief fast.

If you have significant tissue damage beyond my scope of practice, I will refer you to an orthopedist. But by starting here, you work with a knee pain doctor who knows that, in most cases, your body can heal itself with the right care—and without surgery or strong pain medicine.

How Chiropractors Treat Knee Pain: Treatments and Therapies

Chiropractors specialize in the musculoskeletal system and offer non-invasive, drug-free treatments that address the root causes of discomfort. At Truspine, we utilize a variety of innovative therapies to relieve knee pain and restore mobility. Depending on the cause and severity of your knee problems, as your knee pain doctor, we might recommend one or more of these well-established treatments for knee pain.

Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractic adjustments focus on realigning the spine and joints to reduce pressure on the nerves and joints and improve overall function. Misalignments can cause improper movement patterns, leading to irregular wear patterns on the joint, resulting in knee pain.

By correcting these issues, we help your body heal naturally and prevent future injuries. Our chiropractors not only adjust your spine. We also show you safer and more aligned ways to move, lift, and do your daily activities to support knee health. Our goal is to teach you how to move better and feel your best so that an occasional chiropractic adjustment is all you need to stay aligned and do what you love.

Knee on Trac Therapy

Our Knee on Trac therapy provides gentle, effective knee decompression. This treatment increases joint space, reduces inflammation, and promotes the healing of damaged tissues. It’s particularly beneficial for conditions like osteoarthritis, meniscus tears, and chronic knee pain.

Knee on Trac is clinically proven to increase cartilage thickness in patients with degenerative knee conditions like arthritis. The researchers additionally found that patients who received the Knee on Trac Therapy showed reduced pain, increased physical function, and lower rates of depression associated with their condition.

Download our Knee on Trac brochure to learn more about this non-invasive answer to knee pain.

Download our Knee on Trac Brochure.

Learn all about the conditions treated, benefits and contraindications.

Graston Technique

The Graston Technique is an evidence-based form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. Using specialized tools, we break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions in the knee area. This process enhances blood flow, reduces pain, and accelerates recovery.

Graston technique is an important knee pain treatment option in the right hands. Your Graston-trained chiropractor targets adhesions with a special device very precisely. But Graston tools can be dangerous in the wrong hands, leading to extensive tissue damage, often permanent. Do not try this at home or let just anyone attempt this procedure on you.

Shockwave Therapy

Also known as Myofascial Acoustic Compression Therapy (MyACT), this non-invasive treatment utilizes acoustic waves to target deep tissues within the knee. The Piezowave® Shockwave Therapy system delivers focused sound waves that pass painlessly through the body, converging on affected areas to stimulate healing.

This therapy works by increasing circulation, reducing local muscle tension, and promoting the production of collagen—all key components in the healing process. It’s particularly effective for conditions like patellar tendonitis, arthritis, and other chronic knee issues. Sessions are relatively quick, typically lasting between 7 to 10 minutes, and most patients experience significant improvements after a series of treatments without the need for medication or anesthesia.

Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound therapy uses high-frequency sound waves to stimulate tissues beneath the skin’s surface. This treatment improves circulation, decreases swelling, and alleviates pain. It’s a painless, non-invasive option that supports your body’s natural healing processes.

Nutritional Counseling

Nutrition plays a vital role in joint health. Our chiropractors provide personalized nutritional guidance to support tissue repair and reduce inflammation. We may recommend dietary changes or supplements to enhance your overall well-being.

Customized Exercise Programs

Strengthening the muscles around your knee can provide stability while also reducing pain, inflammation, and further damage. We develop individualized exercise plans focusing on improving flexibility, balance, and strength. These exercises are easy to perform at home and are essential for long-term knee health.

Acupuncture

As part of our holistic approach, acupuncture may be incorporated to relieve knee pain. This ancient practice stimulates specific points on the body to balance energy flow, reduce discomfort, and promote healing.

How Long Should Knee Pain Last Before Seeing a Doctor?

You might think knee pain will just go away. But how long should knee pain last before seeing a doctor? If your pain persists for more than a week or hinders your daily activities, it’s time to seek professional help. Sudden, intense pain, particularly after a known injury, should be assessed immediately.

Early intervention can prevent further damage and get you back to enjoying life sooner.

When to See a Knee Pain Specialist

Knee pain should never be ignored, especially if:

It persists for more than a week.
Swelling, redness, or warmth develops.
Pain interferes with daily activities.
You experience instability or “locking” of the knee.
You experienced a known sports injury such as a dislocation or sudden pain with or without loss of mobility.

Schedule your initial consultation and first Knee on Trac to start experiencing the joy of living pain-free.

How to Find a knee pain specialist near me

Truspine Chiropractors are knee pain specialists. We assess the root cause of knee pain, develop effective treatment plans, and work with other knee pain doctors to ensure you get the care you need. At Truspine, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our integrated therapies aim to address the underlying causes of your knee pain, providing lasting relief and improved mobility. We’re dedicated to helping you return to the activities you love, free from discomfort.

“Help! I have knee pain but doctor says nothing’s wrong”

First, know that we believe you. Knee pain can begin long before damage is detected on MRI, which may lead some knee pain doctors to think you’re exaggerating how bad it hurts. And we’ll be honest. It’s good that you’re so aware that something isn’t right. Addressing this early can mean stopping the damage before it becomes visible on MRI.

Just because we can’t see the problem on a test, doesn’t mean your pain isn’t real. And because you’ve caught it early, you probably have the type of knee pain that is easily reversed when we get to the root cause of that pain.

It could be the way you’re standing or walking at work or a particular exercise you’re performing at the gym. You could have a herniated disc leading to misalignment down the kinetic chain—neck to ankle. Even something as seemingly innocent as sitting too much can lead to weak knees that begin to ache.

We’ll take time to figure out what’s causing your pain. We listen. And we look beyond the usual suspects. If you’re having knee pain, we believe you.

Experience True Relief at Truspine

Imagine moving freely without that nagging knee pain. Our team is here to help you achieve that. With innovative treatments and compassionate care, we focus on unlocking your body’s natural ability to heal.

Don’t let unexplained knee pain hold you back. Contact Truspine Chiropractic and discover how our personalized knee pain care can make a real difference in your life. You deserve to live pain-free. Schedule a full evaluation with your first Knee on Trac treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Knee Pain Doctors

What are the common causes of knee pain?

Knee pain can result from various factors, including injuries (like ligament tears or meniscus damage), arthritis (such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis), overuse, muscle imbalances, obesity, structural issues, and the natural aging process.

What type of doctor should I see for knee pain?

Several specialists can help with knee pain, including chiropractors, orthopedists, and pain management doctors. If you prefer a natural, non-invasive approach, starting with a chiropractor can be beneficial. They focus on addressing the root cause of pain through adjustments, therapy, and personalized care. And many people who’ve been told that knee surgery is their only option may want to get a second option from a knee doctor who understands how the knee can heal itself with the right support.

How can a chiropractor help with knee pain?

Chiropractors specialize in the musculoskeletal system and can alleviate knee pain by correcting misalignments, improving joint function, and enhancing mobility. They use various treatments like chiropractic adjustments, Knee on Trac therapy, and customized exercise programs to address the underlying issues causing pain.

What is Knee on Trac therapy?

Knee on Trac is a non-invasive therapy that provides gentle knee decompression. It increases joint space, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing of damaged tissues. This therapy is particularly effective for conditions like osteoarthritis, meniscus tears, and chronic knee pain. It has been shown to help people regrow cartilage.

What is the Graston Technique?

The Graston Technique is an evidence-based form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. Chiropractors use specialized tools to break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions around the knee, enhancing blood flow, reducing pain, and accelerating recovery.

How does Shockwave Therapy relieve knee pain?

Shockwave Therapy, or Myofascial Acoustic Compression Therapy (MyACT), utilizes acoustic waves to target deep tissues within the knee. It increases circulation, reduces muscle tension, and stimulates collagen production, aiding in the healing process for conditions like patellar tendonitis and arthritis. As an aside, collagen is a critical structural protein the body uses to regrow cartilage and strengthen bone and joint tissues.

When should I see a doctor for knee pain?

If knee pain persists for more than a week, interferes with daily activities, or is accompanied by swelling, redness, or instability, it’s important to seek professional help promptly to prevent further damage.

Can chiropractors help with arthritis-related knee pain?

Yes, chiropractors can help manage arthritis-related knee pain by improving joint function, reducing inflammation, and enhancing mobility through non-invasive treatments tailored to your specific condition.

What if my doctor says nothing is wrong, but I still have knee pain?

If you’re experiencing pain without a clear diagnosis, a chiropractor can provide a different perspective. They specialize in identifying subtle misalignments and functional issues that might not show up on standard medical tests, offering personalized treatments to address your pain.

How does obesity contribute to knee pain?

Excess weight places additional strain on your knees, accelerating cartilage breakdown and increasing the risk of chronic pain or arthritis. Managing weight through diet, exercise, or —as a last resort—injections or surgery can alleviate pressure on the knees and reduce pain.

Are there natural treatments for knee pain?

Yes, natural treatments include chiropractic care, physical therapy, nutritional counseling, customized exercise programs, acupuncture, and lifestyle modifications aimed at reducing pain and promoting healing without medications or surgery.

What is the difference between an orthopedist and a chiropractor for knee pain?

An orthopedist specializes in the skeletal system and may recommend surgery or medications for knee issues. A chiropractor focuses on the musculoskeletal system’s alignment and function, offering non-invasive treatments to address the root cause of knee pain.

How can I find a knee pain specialist near me?

You can search for local chiropractors or knee pain clinics specializing in non-invasive treatments. Truspine Chiropractic in San Francisco offers personalized care and innovative therapies for knee pain relief.

Can knee pain be reversed, or is it permanent?

Many causes of knee pain can be effectively managed or even reversed, especially when addressed early. Treatments focusing on healing and strengthening can restore function and reduce or eliminate pain.

What can I expect during a chiropractic visit for knee pain?

During your visit, the chiropractor will perform a thorough assessment, which may include a physical examination, reviewing your medical history, and ordering imaging. They will develop a personalized treatment plan that may involve adjustments, therapies, and recommendations for exercises or lifestyle changes.

Is chiropractic treatment safe for knee pain?

Yes, chiropractic treatment is generally safe and non-invasive. Chiropractors are trained professionals who use precise techniques to improve joint function and alleviate pain. They tailor treatments to each patient’s needs to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor for knee pain?

In most cases, you do not need a referral to see a chiropractor. You can directly schedule an appointment to address your knee pain concerns.

How can muscle imbalances cause knee pain?

Muscle imbalances occur when some muscles are stronger or tighter than others, leading to uneven pressure on the knee joint. This can cause pain and increase the risk of injury. Addressing these imbalances through targeted exercises can alleviate pain.

Can aging lead to knee pain, and how can it be managed?

Aging can lead to natural wear and tear of the knee joint, causing pain. However, proactive care like regular chiropractic treatments, exercise, and healthy lifestyle choices can manage symptoms and maintain knee function.

What lifestyle changes can help reduce knee pain?

Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in low-impact exercises, improving posture, wearing supportive footwear, and following a balanced diet can significantly reduce knee pain and improve joint health.

You deserve to live pain-free. Schedule a full evaluation with your first Knee on Trac treatment.

How Do I Relieve Knee Pain? Innovative Treatments & Exercises

09/23/202409/22/2024 by Supreet Shah

You wake up one morning, and there it is again—the nagging ache in your knee. Or maybe it was with you all night, tossing and turning, you couldn’t find relief. It’s been bothering you for weeks, maybe months—years. Walking up the stairs feels like climbing a mountain. You wonder, “How do I relieve knee pain?” “How can I make this pain go away?”

You’re not alone. Knee pain affects people of all ages and walks of life. But here’s the good news: you can live pain-free without dangerous medications or invasive surgeries.

There are some effective and innovative ways you can start experiencing relief right now—and see that discomfort improve over time. Some of these methods you can do at home. For others, you’ll need to schedule an appointment. But I want you to know that you don’t have to live like this. You can reclaim your movement and enjoy the activities that may seem no longer possible because THEY HURT.

Why Do Knees Hurt?

Knee pain can come from many knee pain causes:

Injuries from a fall, accident, or sports injury
Wear and tear over time
Lack of cartilage
Inflammation
Fluid buildup, often called “water on the knee”
Poor body alignment when walking or standing
Improper lifting or exercise form
Sedentary lifestyle or as I like to call it “sitting too damn much.”

As we age, these stressors and events add up. And they can be made worse by excess weight that we either carry on our bodies or lift during work, sports, home improvement projects, and daily life. we ask a lot of our knees, regardless of BMI.

According to Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, when you walk, the force on your knees is roughly 1.5X the weight you’re carrying internally (body weight) and externally (weight belts, a small child, groceries, etc). When you run, your knees experience 4X your weight. Going upstairs is 2-3X weight. Squatting is 4-5X your body weight. And I won’t even mention jumping. This is just physics (science) and there’s no getting around it. So, a 150 lb person would be putting the force of 300-600 lbs on their knees with various activities.

No wonder knees hurt!

And this is certainly a testament to how strong and resilient knees are when we take care of them. Often, knee pain—even the kind you’ve had for a while now—can be stopped with a combination of knee pain relief exercises and innovative knee pain treatments.

You might ask, “How do I relieve knee pain after a fall?” or “What can I do to relieve some pain behind my knee?” But the first step is understanding what’s causing the pain. That tells you what you need to do next.

Schedule a knee pain assessment and get your first Knee on Trac treatment the same day if your diagnosis calls for it.

How Can I Relieve Knee Pain with Innovative Treatments?

As a chiropractor, I’m an expert in functional medicine. This primarily involves assessing how misalignments, scar tissues, etc. in your musculoskeletal system alter the way the body functions. These deviations from how the body is supposed to work may be causing your pain or making it worse.

Sometimes, trapped nerves in the spine or hips or poor circulation exacerbate the situation. Each of these can be addressed by adjusting how your body is functioning. Here are some of the innovative knee pain relief treatments I use to help clients with knee pain finally experience pain-free movement.

Because at the end of the day, I believe your body has the amazing ability to heal itself when we address the root cause of the pain and stop that irritation.

Chiropractic Adjustments

These adjustments help align your body, reducing stress on your knees. By correcting misalignments, we can change how you walk to relieve knee pain. These adjustments involve more than “cracking your back”. I am trained to see and feel vertebrae that have moved out of place or are putting stress on the cushions in your spinal column.

Through chiropractic adjustment and other chiropractic treatments, I can move these vertebrae back into place, improving your alignment from top to toe.

But this is only the beginning.

Musculoskeletal Movement Assessment & Whole Body Correction

When you come to see me, I’ll ask you to walk, lift, and perform other actions so that I can see how your body moves. You have a kinetic chain that runs down your body from your neck and down your backbone to your ankles and feet. If even one part of this chain is not functioning well, it forces other body parts to compensate, worsening wear and tear and amplifying pain.

These misalignments force some of your muscles to pull more weight than they should, while the muscles that should naturally carry that weight become weaker. This can cause the knee joint to become unstable. They’re not being properly supported. And that hurts!

Our team takes time to show you how to improve your form to not only reduce pain now but to prevent more damage to the knees, giving them a chance to heal. We want you to not only feel better fast but also avoid getting into this painful situation again by developing better movement habits that properly distribute weight.

Knee on Trac Therapy

Knee on Trac is a non-invasive therapy that gently stretches the knee joint, increasing space and reducing pain. At the same time, it helps to strengthen the muscles around the knees so they can better support the joints. You might wonder, “How do I relieve knee pain when there is no cartilage?” Knee on Trac could be the answer. By increasing the space, we can encourage cartilage expansion and new growth.

For a long time, the common knowledge in the medical community was that cartilage does not grow back. But ongoing research has shown that given the right circumstances, cartilege is very resilient. It’s even been likened to salamanders regrowing their limbs by Duke University Researchers.

So, let’s stop talking as if a total knee replacement is your only option to fight cartilage loss.

Download our Knee on Trac brochure to learn more about this non-invasive answer to knee pain.

Download our Knee on Trac Brochure.

Learn all about the conditions treated, benefits and contraindications.

Personalized Home Exercise Plans

Exercises strengthen the muscles around your knee, providing better support. We’ll create a plan just for you so you can work on relieving pain at home—and keep pain from coming back. We even share some of our favorite knee pain relief exercises at the end of this post. But please start slow to improve the range of motion and lessen discomfort over time. And the best thing you can do is to schedule your knee pain assessment and first Knee on Trac treatment today.

How Do I Relieve Knee Pain with a Comprehensive Treatment Plan

The above are examples of therapies that may be part of your personalized and comprehensive knee pain treatment plan, which could also include acupuncture, ultrasound therapy, Graston technique, among other treatment options.

When you come for your knee pain relief assessment, we can discuss how other therapies and treatments can support your goals and answer your question, “how do I relieve knee pain?”

How Can I Relieve Knee Pain If Already Working with a Doctor?

Your health is our top priority. We collaborate with your doctors and can order imaging tests if needed. This team approach ensures you’re getting comprehensive care. If you’re currently taking pain medications with miserable side effects, we can work with the prescribing physician to reduce your dose as you start to experience knee pain relief.

How Do I Relieve Knee Pain with Home Exercises?

Exercise is a powerful tool in relieving knee pain. Strengthening the muscles around your knee provides better support and reduces stress on the joint. You might be wondering, “How do I relieve knee pain fast?” Here are some simple exercises you can try at home that can often do the trick.

1. Straight Leg Raises

How to do it:

Lie on your back with one leg bent and the other straight.
Lift the straight leg about six inches off the ground.
Hold for five seconds, then lower it slowly.
Repeat 10 times on each leg.
Benefits: Strengthens your quadriceps without putting stress on the knee joint.

2. Hamstring Curls

How to do it:

Stand behind a chair for support.
Lift one foot toward your buttocks, bending at the knee.
Hold for five seconds, then lower it.
Do this 10 times on each leg.
Benefits: Strengthens the muscles at the back of your thigh, providing better knee support.

3. Wall Squats

How to do it:

Stand with your back against a wall and feet shoulder-width apart.
Slowly bend your knees, sliding down the wall until you’re in a slight squat.
Hold for five seconds, then slide back up.
Repeat 5-10 times.
Benefits: Builds strength in your thighs and hips, reducing pressure on the knees.

4. Calf Raises

How to do it:

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Slowly rise up onto your toes.
Hold for a few seconds, then lower your heels back down.
Do this 10-15 times.
Benefits: Strengthens the calf muscles, which can improve balance and walking.

5. Step-Ups

How to do it:

Use a sturdy step or platform.
Step up with one foot, then bring the other foot up.
Step back down, one foot at a time.
Repeat 10 times on each leg.
Benefits: Enhances strength and coordination in your legs.

Remember: Always perform these exercises gently and avoid any movements that cause pain, especially if you have not yet been assessed by a doctor. If you’re dealing with severe issues like having no cartilage in your knee or water on your knee, it’s crucial to consult a professional before starting any exercise routine. We can help you choose the exercises that deliver the best benefits while reducing your risks of worsening knee inflammation.

How These Exercises Help

By regularly performing these exercises, you can:

Improve joint flexibility
Reduce stiffness and pain
Enhance muscle strength around the knee
Change how you walk to relieve knee pain

Personalized Exercise Plans

We understand that everyone’s situation is unique. That’s why we offer personalized home exercise plans tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re trying to relieve pain in your knee after a fall or dealing with chronic issues, we’ll design a program that fits you.

Take the First Step Toward Knee Pain Relief

Don’t let knee pain hold you back any longer. With the right exercises and treatments, you can regain your mobility and enjoy life again. You don’t have to live with knee pain. Together, we’ll create a path to healing that’s right for you.

How can I relieve knee pain? Start by incorporating these exercises into your daily routine and reaching out to us for a personalized treatment plan.

Schedule your initial consultation and first Knee on Trac to start experiencing the joy of living pain-free.

Common Questions About Knee Pain

How can I relieve knee pain from water on my knee?

Fluid buildup can cause swelling and discomfort. Treatments like Knee on Trac and specific exercises can help reduce the fluid and alleviate pain while promoting a healthier knee.

My doctor told me I had water stuck behind my knee. How do I relieve the pain from it?

We can work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that addresses the fluid buildup and eases your pain. Knee on Trac may be a good place to start.

How do I relieve severe knee pain?

Severe pain requires careful attention. We’ll assess your condition and recommend therapies that target the root cause, not just the symptoms.

How do I relieve mild to moderate knee pain?

If you have not sustained a known injury, one of the most effective ways to improve knee discomfort is by gentle knee movements and strengthening the muscles around your knees. Get your knees moving, and avoid sitting for long periods. If you try this for a couple of weeks, and the knee pain persists, it’s like to schedule a knee pain assessment with Truspine chiropractor in San Francisco and consider Knee on Trac.

Graston Technique for Knee Pain: We Get You Moving Again!

09/10/202408/19/2024 by Supreet Shah

Knee pain can be a major hurdle, whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or just someone just trying to live pain-free as you go about your daily life. Luckily, Graston Technique offers a knee pain treatment that’s gaining popularity for its effectiveness as a non-surgical knee pain treatment option. But how does this technique work (you want the science!), and how often should you get it for the best results? Let’s dive into the details.

What Is Graston Technique?

Graston Technique is a form of manual therapy chiropractors perform in our offices. And you thought we only cared about backs!

This technique involves using specially designed stainless steel tools to help break down scar tissue, adhesions, and fascia restrictions. Each of these leads to tissues sticking together in abnormal ways, preventing fluid movement and causing strain and pain.

Also called Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), Graston technique is often used to treat soft tissue injuries, making it an excellent choice for those suffering from knee pain. The technique can be particularly beneficial for conditions like runner’s knee, torn meniscus, knee tendonitis, and even post-surgery recovery, such as after a total knee replacement.

It’s important to mention that Graston does not involve scraping the actual kneecap with these Graston tools. That would hurt!

Rather, it works by improving the function of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia that support the knee, These tissues could include around the knee, plus thigh and calf muscles that pull on the knee, causing knee pain. Once these adhesions are broken down, tissues can re-form in more harmonious ways. Of course, this happens over several Graston sessions, targeting a small section at a time. This can improve mobility and reduce knee pain over time.

Graston Technique for Knee Pain: Does It Work?

You might be wondering, “Does Graston work for knee pain?” The short answer is yes. Graston knee therapy is effective for reducing pain, improving range of motion, and speeding up recovery. By targeting specific areas around the knee, the Graston Technique helps to:

Break down scar tissue
Improve blood flow
Enhance healing
Reduce inflammation

Whether you’re dealing with chronic knee pain or recovering from surgery, Graston for knee pain can be a game-changer.

The Compelling Evidence for Graston Technique for Knee Pain

Studies show Graston can relieve pain and increase range of motion better than exercise alone.
Another study showed a 50% improvement in knee function.
A meta-analysis found improvements in functional fitness, lower body muscle strength, and mobility, particularly when combined with an exercise program and chiropractic care and other interventions like Knee on Trac.
In a randomized controlled trial of female athletes with asymptomatic knee valgus (also called knock-knee because the knees lean inward) showed that Graston technique reduced knee valgus and improved squat form

Explore other forms of Knee Pain Treatment

Learn what it feels like to live pain free! Schedule an initial consultation with comprehensive evaluation and first treatment.

How Often Should Graston Technique Be Done?

A common question we get is: “How often should you get Graston Technique?” The frequency of treatments depends on the severity of your condition and your overall health. Generally, patients start with two sessions per week. After a few weeks, your chiropractor may reduce the frequency as your condition improves.

Here’s a general guideline:

Acute Injuries: 1-2 times per week
Chronic Conditions: 2-3 times per week for the first few weeks, then gradually taper off
Post-Surgery (e.g., Knee Replacement): Start with 2 times per week, then adjust based on recovery

It’s important to listen to your body. If you’re wondering, “How often can you use Graston Technique?” or “How often should Graston be done?”, know that your chiropractor will tailor the treatment to your specific needs. Over-treating is rare but can occur, so it’s crucial to follow professional guidance.

Graston Technique with Exercise

Graston is highly effective when combined a home exercise program, which the chiropractors at Truspine can help you design. We take time to show you the movements and proper exercise form.

Graston with Knee on Trac

Another useful tool is Knee on Trac. This in-office therapy uses a specialized machine to slowly bend and extend your knee while retaining perfect alignment. It trains your knee to use the correct form as it heals. At Truspine, our chiropractors take a comprehensive approach to helping you heal. This is just one technique your chiropractor may recommend with Graston (or rather than the Graston Technique) as part of your personalized treatment plan.

Download the Knee on Trac Brochure!

Graston Technique for Specific Knee Conditions

Graston Technique is versatile, making it suitable for various knee-related issues. Here’s how it can help:

Torn Meniscus: Graston Technique for torn meniscus injuries helps break down scar tissue and promotes healing, reducing pain and improving knee function.
Knee Tendonitis: Graston Technique for knee tendonitis targets inflammation and adhesions in the tendons, offering relief and preventing further damage.
Runner’s Knee: For those with runner’s knee, Graston can help to alleviate the discomfort by addressing muscle imbalances and scar tissue that contribute to the condition.
Total Knee Replacement: Post-surgery, Graston Technique for total knee replacement recovery can aid in reducing scar tissue formation, improving range of motion, and speeding up the rehabilitation process.

The Bottom Line: Should You Try Graston Technique for Knee Pain?

If knee pain is holding you back, Graston knee therapy might be the solution you’ve been looking for. With its proven effectiveness in treating various knee conditions, from knee tendonitis to post-surgery recovery, it’s a versatile and powerful tool in the fight against pain. Every day, our Truspine patients are returning to the activities they love with our support.

Remember, the key to success with Graston Technique for knees is consistency. Follow your chiropractor’s recommendations on how often to do Graston Technique, and you’ll be well on your way to healthier, pain-free knees.

So, if you’re tired of knee pain slowing you down, it might be time to ask your chiropractor about incorporating Graston Technique into your treatment plan. After all, healthier knees mean a happier, more active you.

To get on your way to a pain-free life, schedule an initial consultation, including a comprehensive evaluation and first treatment.

Knee Pain Treatment: Home Remedies Plus Chiropractic Solutions

09/10/202410/29/2023 by Supreet Shah

Home » knee pain relief

Has a sudden, sharp pain in your knee ever stopped you in your tracks? If so, you’re not alone. Knee pain is a common complaint for those of us who lead active lifestyles, spend long hours on our feet, and even sit at a desk all day. And you don’t have to just live with it. Knee pain treatment works.

Many knee pain causes exist. They include injuries, arthritis, or underlying health conditions. So, you must get to the root cause to experience relief from joint pain.

That’s what we’re here to help you do. Because knee pain, my friend, is no joke.

In fact, according to the American Academy of Pain Medicine, nearly 20% of Americans report severe knee pain at some point in their lives.

This article gives detailed information on knee pain.

What causes it?
Are your knee pain symptoms trying to tell you something?
And what is the best knee pain treatment based on your unique symptoms?
Could knee pain treatment without an operation work for you?

You’ll find what you’re looking for here. But first, if you’re unsure what’s causing your knee pain, we invite you to explore knee pain causes.

What Is Knee Pain?

Knee pain is any pain or discomfort you feel inside your knees. It can be in the front, back, outside, or where the knees come together. That pain may be sharp, dull, sudden, or persistent.

It’s an inconvenience at best and debilitating at worst. It can hamper your daily activities, keep you sedentary, and impact your sleep.

What Causes Knee Pain?

Your knees hurt for one or more of these reasons. Here are some top culprits.

Overuse injuries

These are pretty common. Just think about how much work your knees do every day!

They bear the weight of your body and help you move around. So, it’s not surprising that they might get worn out or injured from time to time.

Sudden Injuries

Accidents can damage tendons and ligaments. Imagine twisting your knee during a football game or falling awkwardly while hiking. Ouch!

These kinds of incidents can lead to serious knee injuries like sprains or tears. And what’s worse, you keep reinjuring it while it’s trying to heal.

Arthritis

Here’s another common culprit. Inflammation in the joints causes severe discomfort and damages the tissues further. You need to get that inflammation down so the joint can heal.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over 54 million adults in the U.S. suffer from some form of arthritis.

Underuse

This may seem counter-intuitive. But not using your knees can also cause pain. The tissues surrounding the joint weaken. As they do, the knee experiences greater pressure during everyday activities. It’s more likely to get injured. And it may hurt for seemingly no reason.

What are the Symptoms of Knee Pain?

Knee pain symptoms include:

Stiffness
Swelling
Popping or crunching sound
Redness or warmth
Limited ability to extend the leg
Weakness
Instability

Knee pain can be a real nuisance, right? It’s like that one friend who shows up uninvited and overstays their welcome.

When you move your leg, you may feel a little uncomfortable or have a lot of pain when resting. Some people describe their knee pain as a dull ache. Others say it feels like their joint is on fire!

It’s all relative, as they say. Pain is a very subjective experience but no less real.

The condition can be so severe that you have swelling around the joint or trouble moving the leg.

But here’s what’s important:

If you notice any redness around your knee or if it feels warm when touched, these could be signs of an infection. In such cases, it’s best to seek medical attention immediately.

Home remedies for knee pain are not an alternative to medical treatment. They can only be a complement to it. They promote your body’s natural ability to heal itself.

The American College of Rheumatology suggests that you should see a doctor if your knee hurts for more than a week or if you have a fever or unexplained weight loss. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term damage to your knee.

Now that we’ve covered what knee pain is, its causes and symptoms, I bet you’re wondering how it’s diagnosed.

But you can explore more knee pain causes here if you’d like.

How Is Knee Pain Diagnosed?

Diagnosis starts with a thorough medical examination. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, how bad your pain is, and what might have caused it. They’ll also want to know about any past injuries or medical conditions.

Next comes the physical examination. Your doctor checks for swelling, tenderness, and warmth. They look for visible bruising on your knee.

They might also move your knee into different positions. How far can you move your knee back and forth before it hurts? Where do you feel the pain—outside of the knees, between the knees, front, back, to all over?

This allows them to identify which ligaments or parts of the knee are affected.

Sometimes, the initial exams can’t find the exact cause of your knee pain. So, doctors use imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds to diagnose medical conditions. These tests provide detailed images of the structures inside your knee—bones, cartilage, tendons… you name it!

Unfortunately, X-rays can’t detect all problems.

For instance, they can reveal if you’ve got a fracture or arthritis. But you’ll need an MRI to detect damage to soft tissues such as ligaments and tendons.

Sometimes, when there’s a concern about infection or gout, doctors may do a procedure called arthrocentesis. They take fluid from your knee joint to examine under a microscope.

Sounds scary? Don’t worry! It’s done under local anesthesia. So. you won’t feel much discomfort during the procedure.

Now, let’s move on to home remedies for knee pain relief, San Francisco!

You can also schedule an initial consultation to learn how misalignments contribute to your pain. Schedule your initial consult and get your first Knee on Trac treatment same day. It’s included with your first visit.

What Is the Home Remedy For Knee Pain Relief?

Knee pain self-treatment is possible. You may not need surgery.

When knee pain is serious takes you out of the game, many home remedies might do the trick. So, it’s crucial to explore knee pain treatment options that are natural and non-invasive when possible.

How is Knee Pain Treated at Home?

One popular method is using heat and cold therapy. To get started, use a hot pack to loosen stiff joints or a cold pack to reduce inflammation and numb the area. Alternate.

Remember, using too much heat or cold or for too long could harm your skin. So, don’t leave either on the skin for an extended time.

Heat should be tolerable. Cold should have something between your skin and the ice.

OTC Pain Killers

Painkillers aren’t our first choice. But they can be very effective—especially short-term.

Try ibuprofen (such as Advil) or acetaminophen (such as Tylenol). These medications can help manage mild to moderate knee pain. But don’t use them long-term without talking to a healthcare professional.

Even OTCs have side effects when overused or misused. These can include liver damage, uncontrolled bleeding, and tinnitus (ringing of the ears).

Essential Oils

You’ve probably heard about the benefits of essential oils, right? Certain oils, like lavender and eucalyptus, may reduce knee pain when massaged onto the area. They have anti-inflammatory properties.

Knee Pain Lotions

Creams with capsaicin, a pain-relieving substance found in chili peppers, create a sensation of warmth. Apply it on the skin over your painful knee joint. This helps distract your brain from the underlying pain.

Menthol also has both anti-inflammatory properties and a heating sensation.

Knee Pain Treatment Exercises

Exercise plays an integral role in managing knee pain.

Even gentle activities like walking strengthen muscles around your knees. These muscles stabilize the joint and reduce pressure on it.

Flexibility activities help, too! Regular movement across your entire range of motion keeps tissues like tendons, ligaments, and fascia healthy. The joint can move with greater ease. It doesn’t have to compensate for tightness by moving awkwardly.

Being active helps blood flow. This speeds up the healing of injured tissues.

Swimming and cycling are better for your knees than running or jumping. Low-impact exercises reduce the risk of aggravating an existing injury.

But remember, it’s all connected. Do exercises for your quadriceps and hamstrings to reduce knee pain and strengthen them. Weakness in a different area will force the knees to work harder and less efficiently.

Yoga is another excellent choice for those suffering from knee pain. This practice emphasizes balance and flexibility. Poses such as the chair pose or warrior pose can help strengthen your knee muscles. But they don’t put too much strain on them.

Lastly, don’t forget about stretching! Regularly stretching your legs can improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in your knees. Just remember to warm up before you start to prevent injuries!

This seems counter-intuitive. You’ve undoubtedly seen runners stretch before physical activity.

But stretching knees that are stiff from sitting or lying can actually make it worse. Walk around or gently extend them before going for deep stretch.

Managing Knee Pain with Food

Believe it or not, knee pain treatment food is possible. What you eat can have a significant impact on your knee pain. Eating foods like fruits, vegetables, fish, and nuts can help manage knee pain caused by inflammation. These foods have compounds that science shows reduce inflammation.

On the other hand, foods high in sugar and saturated fats may increase inflammation. They make knee pain worse. So, try to limit your intake of processed foods and opt for whole foods instead.

And yes, fruits are okay despite the sugar. The benefits of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins are greater than the harm from sugar within a well-balanced diet.

Knee Pain Relief Supplements

Glucosamine and chondroitin are also believed to promote joint health by helping rebuild cartilage. Cartilage is the tissue that cushions your joints. So, yes, you want to protect that tissue.

However, you should only take them under medical supervision. They may interact with other medications.

As you can see knee pain treatment is more than taking a pill or getting surgery. A holistic approach to knee health includes home remedies, regular exercise, and a healthy diet. Often, this resolves the problem entirely.

What Are Knee Pain Home Remedies for Bursitis, Meniscus Tear, Etc.?

If you’ve been diagnosed with a certain type of knee pain, you may be looking for knee pain treatment specific to that type of knee pain.

Knee Pain Meniscus Tear Treatment

A small meniscus tear can heal with rest, hot/cold, and low-impact exercise. But it does take some time to heal—sometimes a year or more. You may also reinjure it as it closes, causing scar tissue. Strengthening the surrounding muscles protects the meniscus as it heals. A significant meniscus tear will probably need surgery. And if you’re an athlete or have a demanding job that increases reinjury risk. Surgery is usually a better option for you.

Knee Pain Bursitis Treatment

Bursitis responds well to anti-inflammatory drugs, low-impact exercise, and a focus on strengthening the whole leg.

Knee Pain Cartilage Treatment

Rest, hot/cold, and low-impact strengthening exercises can help with pain caused by cartilage loss.

However, it’s essential to realize that poor body alignment and balance can wear cartilage down faster than it can heal. Knee pain chiropractic treatment helps restore knee stability.

Knee Pain Tendonitis Treatment

Anti-inflammatories and gentle exercise can help ease the pain while the joint heals.

Knee Pain Swelling Treatment

You may have an infection or serious injury if you have significant heat or swelling. Please see a doctor.

Holistic Knee Pain Treatment

In all of these cases, your Truspine chiropractor can assess your condition, order imaging, and build a knee pain treatment plan that includes both home remedies and holistic, natural treatments like:

Acupuncture.
Nutrition advice
Sports medicine involves various techniques designed for the unique needs of athletes and active people.
Ultrasound therapy
Knee on Trac, which uses a specialized machine to guide your leg slowly through a range of motion, promotes blood flow and proper alignment, all while strengthening supporting tissues. Download the Knee on Trac brochure.
Spinal Adjustment to realign supportive structures

When Should You Seek Medical Knee Pain Treatment?

If you have mild to moderate knee pain that is relatively new, the above knee pain home remedies can help.

But when is knee pain serious?

You may need to see a doctor and get medical knee pain treatment if:

Pain is severe
Moderate pain persists for several days even with rest and OTC medicine
Mild pain persists for weeks despite home remedies
You can pinpoint a cause back to a specific injury
You can’t fully extend your leg
You limp or try to walk a certain way to avoid pain
You struggle to perform daily activities. Have you started walking less or avoiding the stairs? Do you sit down on a stool to avoid squatting when reaching under the sink? You’re doing your body a disservice. These seemingly small reductions in activity make it worse over time. They will age you beyond your years.
You think you may have a soft tissue tear. Soft tissue tears can take a long time to heal on their own because you keep reinjuring them. So, delay only makes it worse. If the manual examination indicates you may have a soft tissue tear or fracture, we can order imaging. This guides your knee treatment plan.
You also have swelling, redness, and fever. These could be signs of an infection or an inflammatory condition like arthritis.

According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, about 18 million patients visit a doctor or hospital yearly due to knee problems.

When you choose Truspine for your chiropractic care, you get an evaluation plus your first Knee on Trac treatment during your first visit.

We want to get you on the path to relief quickly.

Other Indications That You Might Need Medical Knee Pain Treatment

Sometimes, the symptoms aren’t as evident as intense pain or swelling. Perhaps you’ve noticed a grinding sensation in your knee when you move it. Or maybe there’s been an unusual increase in joint stiffness when you wake up in the morning.

These subtle changes can also indicate underlying issues such as osteoarthritis.

Injuries from sports or accidents often need medical attention, too. Have you fallen recently? Did you hear a popping sound followed by immediate pain in your knee? These could signify ligament damage. It needs urgent care.

It’s important not only to focus on physical symptoms though. Psychological factors play a part too!

Is constant worry about your knee problem causing stress and anxiety? Is it affecting your quality of life? Don’t hesitate to get those knees checked out!

It’s better safe than sorry!

Lastly, remember those statistics we mentioned earlier? Early intervention can greatly improve outcomes for knee pain. So if you’re in doubt, getting checked out is always a good idea.

Now that we’ve talked about when to see a doctor for knee pain, let’s discuss knee pain treatments for severe cases.

What Are The Medical Treatments Available For Severe Knee Pain?

Any knee pain becomes a constant reminder that something is not quite right. As you go about your day it’s always with you. But sometimes, the pain is beyond what’s bearable.

Even here, knee pain treatment can get you back on your feet.

What Does A Surgical Procedure Involve?

Doctors often recommend surgical options such as arthroscopic surgery or total knee replacement. Either you’ve already tried conservative measures. Or they know they won’t work because it’s bad.

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure. Doctors make tiny cuts and use special tools to find and fix problems in the joint. This method can remove small amounts of damaged or diseased parts and close tears.

On the other hand, total knee replacement replaces the damaged parts of the knee joint with an artificial one. Doctors make an incision over your knee to expose the joint.

They can then remove damaged tissue. After that, they insert artificial pieces made of metal and plastic. This restores their function. It reduces pain.

Surgery can sound scary. But knowing what to expect can help ease your nerves. But it’s not just about what happens during surgery. Recovery is equally important! After surgery, you’ll likely need to stay in the hospital for a few days before returning home. You’ll also have regular follow-ups with your doctor to monitor your progress.

And you’ll also get physical therapy to help the joint stay mobile as it heals.

According to The American Journal of Medicine, 90% of people who undergo total knee replacement experience substantial improvement in their ability to perform common activities like walking or climbing stairs.

But we don’t want to leave you with the impression that surgery is your only option—even for severe knee pain.

Non-surgical treatments can also manage knee pain.

How Does Physical Therapy Treat Knee Pain?

Physical therapy sounds fancy doesn’t it? But trust me, it’s pretty straightforward stuff! Physical therapy helps you regain movement and function in your body after an injury or illness. It includes guided exercises and personalized home exercise programs. Physical therapists focus on strengthening muscles around your knees.

Different types of therapies are used depending on what’s causing your discomfort. For instance, let’s say you have arthritis causing you grief. A physical therapist may suggest Aquatic therapy. The water provides resistance without putting too much stress on joints.

Therapists often use their hands to apply pressure on muscles and manipulate joints, known as manual therapy. A study in a medical journal discovered that 72% of knee osteoarthritis patients had less pain after manual therapy. So, don’t underestimate the power of a good rubdown!

Now that we’ve covered treatments for severe cases of knee pain let’s move on to something equally important – prevention! Because, as they say, prevention is better than cure.

How Do You Prevent Knee Pain?

First, the home remedies we suggested above will also go a long way toward preventing knee pain. They can also reduce the chances that it gets worse.

But you can do more to keep knee pain from stopping you in your tracks.

It’s all about making lifestyle changes and caring for your body.

Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

Body weight is more than a vanity metric. Extra weight puts more stress on joints than they’re built for. When your weight shifts from side to side, it’s pulling the joint in unnatural ways. This is made worse if you also have weak muscles around the joint. So, you may become injury-prone.

Jumping or running amplifies the weight. So, it’s no wonder you may exhaust more quickly than normal-weight people. You’re doing more work than they are.

That added weight may also discourage you from being as active as you would otherwise. This can start you down a slippery slope. Extra weight presses down on the joints. Knee pain starts. You become less active. It gets worse. And so on.

It doesn’t matter if you’re carrying extra muscle or extra fat. Losing a bit of weight can help your knees.

According to Harvard Health Publishing, every pound of excess weight exerts about 4 pounds of extra pressure on the knees! So losing just 5 pounds could take 20 pounds of pressure off your knees. That’s pretty impressive, right?

Regular physical activity lowers the risk of knee pain, according to a study in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. To stay healthy and prevent knee pain, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight and stay active.

Wear Supportive Shoes that Fit Well

If your feet and ankles are shifting side to side, your knees will adjust to the movement. This wears down cartilage and causes pain. So, think about what your feet want when buying shoes. Supportive footwear maintains proper leg alignment and balance. It reduces strain on your knees.

Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing

Do you sit and stand for long periods throughout the day? You likely notice your knees feel stiff after a while.

When the knees aren’t moving for a time, they lose lubrication. The surrounding tissues tighten. Now what happens when you transition from an extended period of no activity to intense movement?

That lack of lubrication coupled with tightened tissues increases discomfort. It also causes joint damage.

A better strategy for sitting or standing in one place for a long time is to change your position several times an hour. Tools like a footstool, balance board, or massaging mat can help. Try walking in place or tapping your foot for a period.

Maintain Good Posture

Good posture goes a long way toward keeping those pesky knee pains away!

Avoid letting yourself settle into slumping positions, Whether sitting, standing, or running. These “lazy” body positions don’t engage muscles, making them weak.

Weak soft tissues make hard structures like your spine, or pelvic bones misaligned. Knee pain occurs because they must compensate.

Get Knee Pain Relief with Effective Knee Pain Treatment

Many home remedies can effectively reduce your knee pain. But to get the right treatment, you need to know what’s causing the pain and know when home remedies don’t work.

We invite you to find out what’s causing your knee pain. To get your comprehensive knee pain evaluation and first Knee on Trac treatment, schedule an initial consultation.

Download our Knee on Trac Brochure.

Learn all about the conditions treated, benefits and contraindications.

Frequently Asked Questions About Knee Pain Treatment

What are the most common causes of knee pain?

Injuries cause ligament tears or cartilage damage from sports or accidents. Osteoarthritis causes cartilage breakdown. Overuse can lead to Meniscus tears, tendinitis or bursitis.

How many types of knee pain?

Many, all with different causes.

Sharp and stabbing. This means there may be an injury like a tear.
Dull and Aching. This is usually from arthritis or overuse. Bone-on-bone contact in arthritis causes a grinding sensation.
Swelling and stiffness can occur from injuries or joint inflammation.
Instability and Giving Way may be due to ligament damage.

When should I see a doctor about knee pain?

You should see a doctor if the pain is severe or persists for more than a few weeks despite self-care. If it worsens over time or you have swelling, redness, or warmth in the joint, it’s time to check it out.

If knee pain prevents you from doing your normal activities, causes instability, or you have clicking or giving way of the knee, don’t delay scheduling an appointment. Sudden onset of severe pain after an injury also requires prompt medical evaluation.

What tests will the doctor do to diagnose knee pain?

Common tests to diagnose knee pain include a physical exam where the doctor checks for swelling, range of motion, ligament stability and meniscus function. Imaging like X-rays can check for arthritis or fractures. MRIs can see soft tissues like cartilage, ligaments and tendons. Finally, an arthroscopy uses a tiny camera through a small incision to look inside the joint. Lab tests can confirm infections and measure inflammatory markers for arthritis.

Which treatment is best for knee pain?

The treatment for knee problems depends on the cause. Home remedies include rest, ice, compression, and anti-inflammatories. Other non-invasive treatments include physical therapy, injections, and braces. If pain or knee damage is severe, you may need surgery for tears or loose bodies. In extreme cases, knee replacement for severe arthritis. Avoid reaching this stage through lifestyle changes. Weight loss, low-impact activities, and diet can all directly impact knee health.

What is the best knee pain relief at home?

Common home remedies include RICE therapy. That stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Knee braces, a knee pain relief sleeve, or tape for support are temporary solutions. They can cause weakened muscles with everyday use.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can reduce inflammation and pain for a short time. This gives you a window to exercise or receive knee pain therapy like Knee on Trac to strengthen knee muscles and promote healing.

Knee pain topical medication creams containing menthol or capsaicin have a burning sensation. They work by distracting the brain.

Knee wraps, low-impact exercises like swimming or biking, knee pads, and losing weight if overweight are also effective. Invest in good footwear. A doctor, physical therapist, or chiropractor who knows about your knee pain cause can suggest the safest exercises for it.

When is surgery recommended for knee pain?

Surgery is usually recommended if non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, knee pain treatment injections and braces have failed. For surgery to work there must be a clear mechanical problem like a torn meniscus or ligament. Or x-rays/MRI show significant arthritis damage. Some common knee surgeries include arthroscopy for tears, loose bodies or debris removal, meniscus repair or removal, ligament reconstruction, and total knee replacement for end-stage arthritis.

What are some exercises for knee pain?

To help with knee pain, try gentle exercises like swimming, water aerobics, or stationary cycling. You can also try knee-friendly yoga, walking in a pool or on soft surfaces, or leg lifts without weights. Physical therapy exercises that focus on range of motion, strengthening, and proprioception can also be helpful. Avoid high-impact activities like running that may aggravate knee problems.

Will knee pain go away?

Knee pain can go away through knee pain treatment at home. Strategies like low-impact exercise, diet improvement, and weight loss can help. But it’s important to realize some knee injuries require medical attention. If you experienced a known injury or if the pain is severe, accompanied by heat, or doesn’t resolve in a few weeks with home remedies, you should get it checked out.

What is the recovery time after knee surgery?

The time it takes to recover depends on the surgery. For arthroscopy, it’s usually 2-6 weeks. Meniscus repair takes 6-12 weeks. Ligament reconstruction takes 6-9 months. Total knee replacement takes 4-6 months. Physical therapy is vital after all surgeries to regain motion, strength and function. After minor procedures, most people can go back to their daily activities within a few weeks. However, returning to sports may take longer.

How can I prevent knee pain from getting worse?

Lose weight if you’re overweight. This works wonders. Start or maintain a low-impact exercise routine, including stretches and strength. Wear proper shoes and use braces during more intense activities. But don’t wear them all the time. This has a worsening effect. If you’re injured, get treatment.

Avoid high-impact activities if possible. Manage arthritis with medications and lifestyle. See a doctor for an early evaluation to identify and address the underlying cause.

To get your comprehensive knee pain evaluation and first Knee on Trac treatment, schedule an initial consultation.

Knee Pain Medial: What Causes Knee Pain from Inside?

09/10/202408/29/2023 by Supreet Shah

Home » knee pain relief

Is knee pain your ever-present companion? Or maybe you’ve just started experiencing knee pain symptoms? Either way, it’s crucial to consider where the knee hurts. It gives you clues about what’s causing knee pain and what to do about it. Knee pain medial (or medial knee pain if you prefer) should never be ignored.

It not only brings discomfort. Lack of mobility keeps you from doing what you love, which can make the pain worse over time.

Find out what’s causing your knee pain now!

What Is Medial Knee Pain?

Medial knee pain refers to the discomfort felt on the inner side of the knee closest to the other knee.

So, which side is the medial side of knee? Left or right? This can cause some confusion when you Google search “what causes knee pain left side” or “knee pain right side”.

Instead of thinking right or left, realize that the knees mirror each other!

This part of the knee is called “medial” because the medial collateral ligament (MCL) connects the thigh bone to the shin bone on the inner sides of each knee. If you’re experiencing knee pain inside (between your knees), this ligament is what you feel.

On the other hand, if you have knee pain on the outside, that’s lateral knee pain. You’re feeling the Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL).

Anatomy of Medial Knee Pain

Where is medial knee pain? That’s not a trick question.

It often originates as knee pain inside below the kneecap. But it can extend to the upper leg.

The pain might worsen with specific movements. So, you may have knee pain walking up stairs, knee pain on the side when bending, or medial knee pain with flexion (trying to bend your knee as far as it goes).

The inner side of your knee might be tender to touch.

To learn more about the anatomy of knee pain, here are more resources you’ll want to check out.

What Causes Pain on the Inner Side of Knee?

Sudden Inner Knee Pain

3 common events lead to sudden knee pain medial:

Falls
Sports injuries, like a medial collateral ligament injury
A sudden increase in activity without adequately preparing the body

Chances are one of the above culprits is to blame if this is a new pain.

Ongoing Inner Knee Pain

Knee pain medial can also be an ongoing issue with the musculoskeletal system, like these:

Osteoarthritis is a slow degeneration of joint tissue accompanied by a slowing repair rate as you age. While it’s associated with age, factors like excess weight (muscle or fat), lack of exercise, and poor spinal alignment can significantly hasten the degeneration an individual experiences, if any.
Torn meniscus (cartilage) may occur when the knee is not properly supported by strong leg muscles.
Pes anserine bursitis is inflammation of the fluid-filled bursa that reduces ligament friction, usually caused by improper knee alignment or weak leg muscles.
Medial plica irritation. Media plica are folds in the joint that cover the knee. The constant rubbing can cause them to thicken and become less pliable, usually caused by poor body alignment.

As you can see, it’s all connected. The musculoskeletal system is complex. When something goes wrong in one area, other tissues must overcompensate. This leads to chronic pain throughout the body.

You can learn more about how these misalignments contribute to your pain, and what we can do about it when you Schedule an initial consultation for evaluation and first treatment.

What Are the Symptoms of Knee Pain Medial?

Symptoms of inner knee pain include:

Sudden pain on the inside of the knee (injury-related)
Swelling
Knee pain inside when bending.
Bruising
Instability
Stiffness
Difficulty walking
Locking of knee joint
Feeling like your knee is going to “give out” when you stand up
Cracking in the knee

how to treat medial knee pain

Chiropractic care offers non-invasive, drug-free, and effective options for alleviating medial knee pain. We first perform a thorough examination to identify the root cause of your pain. We then apply manual techniques to adjust and manipulate the affected areas, promoting natural healing.

Treatments for Medial Knee Pain

Each chiropractic treatment plan is unique. We design one specifically to help you achieve your goals. A chiropractic treatment plan for knee pain may include:

Chiropractic Adjustments

You may think of the back when we say “chiropractor”. And we won’t diminish the importance of the back because that’s where the spine is. But chiropractors are trained in “whole body” alignment. When the mechanical issues with the body are fixed, the body can start healing itself.

Learning Proper Form

Posture is more than how you sit or stand upright. You need to move so your posture is dynamic. Every activity you perform requires posture. When you bend, lift, squat, reach, pick something up, turn, and more, you’re applying a posture technique.

If this technique is off-balance, weight is unevenly distributed. Some tissues strengthen more than others, causing misalignment. So, re-learning how to move effectively is essential.

We show you how as part of your knee pain treatment plan! And we send you home with an exercise plan to practice and strengthen supporting tissues.

To get your comprehensive knee pain evaluation and first treatment, schedule an initial consultation.

Ultrasound therapy

Ultrasound is a well-established healing practice. We use a device to send sound waves at 800,000 Hz and 2,000,000 Hz through your knee. This can reduce swelling and promote blood flow to oxygen and nutrient-starved tissues.

Stretching for Relief

Stretches targeting the inner side of your knee can help alleviate knee pain medial. Gently stretching the muscles around the knee joint and hip can improve flexibility and reduce tension. Your Truspine chiropractor guides you with specific medial knee pain stretches that suit your condition.

Knee on Trac

Knee on Trac^TM is a specialized traction device we use in the office to isolate and strengthen knee tissues. It ensures your knee movements use proper form while taking the knee through a set of static and intermittent movements. This helps ensure the knee is not re-injured during exercises, while reducing any discomfort your may feel.

Download our Knee on Trac Brochure.

Learn all about the conditions treated, benefits and contraindications.

Sports Medicine

In the short term, our focus is reducing pain and helping your body heal. But we also want to prevent future injuries. Your inner knee pain treatment plan may include developing a training strategy to reduce your risk of future injury. Sports medicine is for everyone. Athletes and weekend warriors alike.

Getting Back to What You Love

With each treatment, you’ll feel less pain. You can move with ease and get back to activities you enjoy. This “getting back to what you love” is vital to the healing process. As you do, you’ll strengthen the surrounding muscles and other tissues to support and maintain alignment. This can provide you with long-term relief from the annoyance of knee pain.

Why Chiropractic Care for Knee Pain Is Different

Chiropractic care stands out due to its emphasis on functional healing without medications. Unlike medications that may have side effects, chiropractic treatments target the root cause of the pain.

This means that as chiropractors, we not only focus on the symptoms. We aim to identify any underlying issues contributing to your medial knee pain. This approach can lead to long-term improvement and prevention of future injuries.

Let’s fix this at the source!

Sometimes, pain in the knee can be referred from the hip. Very often, misalignments in the spine contribute to poor knee alignment.

So, we address all of it to provide whole-body pain relief, increased mobility, and improved function.

What’s more, when you choose Truspine for your chiropractic care, you get an evaluation plus your first treatment on the same day. We want to get you on the path to relief quickly.

Embracing a Life without Knee Pain

Medial knee pain shouldn’t hold you back from living your life to the fullest. With chiropractic care, you can address the pain on the inner side of your knee and regain your mobility.

If you’re struggling with knee pain on the inner side, chiropractic care provides a promising avenue for relief. By targeting the root causes of your pain, chiropractors can help you overcome discomfort and improve your overall quality of life. Say goodbye to persistent knee pain and embrace a pain-free, active lifestyle with chiropractic solutions.

Let our Truspine chiropractors get to the root cause of your knee pain. Schedule an initial consultation and get your first treatment same day!

Meniscus Injuries: Stop the Pain Now & Promote Healing

09/10/202407/16/2023 by Supreet Shah

Home » knee pain relief

Meniscus injuries can be painful and limit your mobility. But did you know that a chiropractor can play a significant role in your recovery? Whether you’re dealing with a lateral meniscus tear or any other meniscus injury, working with a chiropractor is a non-invasive and effective approach to alleviate pain and promote healing.

How Do Meniscus Injuries Happen?

Meniscus injuries, including lateral meniscus tears, can occur due to sudden twists or impacts on the knee joint. It’s true that mild to moderate meniscus tears can heal “on their own”. But this rarely happens with without some form of care because you will keep re-injuring it, making it worse.

If left untreated, as it gets injured again and again, it begins to significantly impact your daily activities and overall quality of life.

Types of Meniscus Injuries

A meniscus is a C-shaped pad made of cartilage on either side of your knee. It works as a shock absorber. There are two main types of meniscus injuries: medial and lateral.

The medial meniscus, located on the inner side of the knee joint, is more commonly injured. The lateral meniscus, positioned on the outer side of the knee joint, is less frequently injured.

Both kinds cause similar meniscal injury symptoms:

Pain
Swelling
Stiffness
Limited mobility
Difficulty straightening or bending the knee
Popping or clicking sensations during knee movement
Feeling of instability or giving way

To learn about other knee pain causes, check this out.

Both types of meniscus injuries can range from minor tears to severe and complex tears. The severity and location of the tear within the meniscus play a significant role in determining the appropriate treatment approach.

For the vast majority of injuries, a therapeutic approach, such as chiropractic care is your best option. Only in severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or remove the damaged portion of the meniscus. Either way, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for optimal recovery and to prevent further complications.

How a Chiropractor Helps Meniscus Injuries (3 Steps)

Chiropractors utilize a holistic approach to treat meniscus injuries and address their underlying causes.

1. Chiropractic Assessment

A medial or lateral meniscus tear can cause excruciating pain. So, we share your sense of urgency to stop the pain and restore function. Those are our two primary goals.

To this end, a chiropractor will conduct a thorough evaluation to identify the exact nature and extent of your lateral meniscus injury. It involves imaging to look inside and identify where the tear is and how bad it is. It also involves a gentle manual assessment of “where it hurts”. This assessment helps your chiropractor develop a customized treatment plan.

To get to the root cause of this pain and find lasting relief, schedule an initial consultation, including a comprehensive knee evaluation, treatment plan, and an initial adjustment and/or treatment.

Download our Knee on Trac Brochure.

Learn all about the conditions treated, benefits and contraindications.

2. Relieving Lateral Meniscus Pain

After the assessment, one of the first things your Truspine chiropractor will want to do—and we think you’ll agree—is to take action to reduce pain levels quickly. We’ll develop a plan to provide quick but short-term relief. This short-term relief gives us a window to start working on therapies that, over time, can improve musculoskeletal alignment, restore functionality, and promote healing for long-term results.

To alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing, we may perform a variety of integrative healing therapies:

Gentle and specific chiropractic adjustments
Ultrasound therapy
Shockwave therapy
Laser therapy
Acupuncture

3. Restoring Functionality

When you’re suffering from a meniscus injury, restoring mobility and functionality are crucial. Chiropractors employ various techniques, such as mobilization and soft tissue therapies, to restore joint motion, improve muscle strength, and enhance overall knee function.

Your chiropractor will guide you through corrective exercises during your appointment. We also prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint. These exercises help stabilize the joint, enhance flexibility, and promote long-term recovery.

Be sure to check out other knee pain causes that this comprehensive chiropractic strategy can help.

Natural Healing without Surgery

Chiropractic care provides a non-surgical and drug-free alternative for meniscus injuries. By addressing the underlying causes of the injury and promoting natural healing processes, chiropractors help patients avoid invasive procedures and potential side effects.

If you’re suffering from a lateral meniscus tear or any other meniscus injury, chiropractic care can be a valuable treatment option. With our expertise in musculoskeletal health, we can provide personalized care to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and improve overall well-being. Don’t let meniscus injuries hold you back—seek the help of a chiropractor to regain control of your life. To get to the root cause of this pain and find lasting relief, schedule an initial consultation, including a full knee evaluation and an adjustment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will walking on a torn meniscus make it worse?

Walking on a torn meniscus can potentially worsen the injury and cause increased pain or further damage.

Will meniscus injuries heal on their own?

A meniscus tear may not heal on its own as the blood supply to the meniscus is limited, and the healing potential depends on the tear type, location, and individual factors.

How long does a meniscus tear take to heal?

The healing time for a meniscus tear can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the tear, treatment approach, and individual healing ability. It can take several weeks to several months.

Can a meniscus tear heal without surgery?

In some cases, a meniscus tear can heal without surgery, particularly for small tears on the outer edge of the meniscus. However, larger tears or tears in the inner part of the meniscus are less likely to heal without surgical intervention.

Can meniscus pain come and go?

Yes, meniscus pain can come and go, particularly if the tear is unstable or if the person engages in activities that aggravate the injury. Symptoms may vary over time.

Which meniscus injuries are more common?

The medial meniscus, located on the inner side of the knee joint, is more commonly injured than the lateral meniscus, which is on the outer side of the knee joint.

Is a torn meniscus a permanent injury?

A torn meniscus can be a permanent injury, especially if it does not heal properly or if surgical intervention is required. However, with appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, many individuals can find relief and regain functionality.

Be sure to check out other knee pain causes that this comprehensive chiropractic strategy can help. And You can learn more about how these misalignments contribute to your pain, and what we can do about it when you Schedule an initial consultation for evaluation and first treatment.

Knee Pain Causes: Comprehensive Look at Top Culprits

09/10/202406/30/2023 by Supreet Shah

Home » knee pain relief

For many, walking without pain equals freedom, independence, and the ability to continue doing what you love. So when you’re dealing with knee pain causes, it can really put a damper on your day-to-day activities, not to mention your mental state.

If a knee pain x-ray comes back normal, you may jump to the conclusion that it’s arthritis, a “natural sign of aging”. But there are joint pain causes other than arthritis. And contrary to popular belief, arthritis is not “natural”. It’s a sign that something else is going on.

In this article, we’ll explore knee pain possible causes and symptoms. We’ll look at what’s really happening to your knees. And we’ll explore practical steps you can take right now to start experiencing knee pain relief and regaining proper knee function.

Demystifying the Causes of Knee Pain

1. Age-related Wear and Tear

As you get older, your knee joints may start to show signs of wear and tear. This is often due to a condition called osteoarthritis. With this condition, the protective cushioning between your joints wears down. Think of it like the shock absorbers in a car wearing out over time. This can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in your knees.

While this is a common occurrence as you age, the rate of “wear and tear” you experience is within your control. Strategies like maintaining proper body alignment and maintaining a healthy level of physical activity can slow its progression.

Is your knee pain an inevitable sign of “natural” aging? Schedule a knee pain assessment to find out! Get a consultation plus your first treatment.

2. Overuse and Repetitive Movements

Engaging in activities that stress your knees, like running, jumping, or squatting, can lead to overuse injuries. When you repeat these movements repeatedly without proper rest or conditioning, your knee joints can become strained. This is one of the common causes of knee pain when squatting.

It’s like you’re repeatedly bending a wire until it starts to weaken and fray, eventually causing pain and inflammation.

This doesn’t mean you have to avoid these activities altogether.

Many people start an intense new exercise routine without realizing that the body needs time to adjust. Or they perform the activity without knowing the proper form. Muscles and connective tissues need time to strengthen. This is especially true as we age.

So, now what?

If you’re already experienced signs of this knee pain cause, here are some things that can help:

Have your knees evaluated by a professional
Get the inflammation down
Start a home exercise routine to strengthen your lower body. Ease into this new activity.
Consider chiropractic care to ensure spinal alignment and improve your form

3. Excess Weight

Whether you’re carrying some extra fat weight or muscle, this excess can put a significant burden on your knees, causing knee pain. Imagine your knees as pillars holding up a structure. Pillars are designed to hold up a set amount of weight. When you add too much weight to the structure, the pillars can start to buckle under the pressure.

Similarly, the excess weight stresses your knee joints, leading to pain and increased risk of osteoarthritis.

4. Sports Injuries

Participating in sports that involve sudden stops, changes in direction, or collisions can increase the chances of sustaining a knee injury. These injuries often involve damage to the ligaments that hold your knee together, like the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

These ligaments are like sturdy ropes that stabilize your knee joint. When they’re torn or damaged, they can cause intense pain and instability.

5. Muscle Imbalances

Your knee joint relies on a delicate balance of muscles and tendons to function properly. Sometimes, certain muscles may become stronger or tighter than others, leading to imbalances.

These imbalances can cause the kneecap to track incorrectly, leading to pain and discomfort. It’s like a tug of war between muscles, where one side pulls harder, throwing off the alignment.

Sometimes, knee pain causes back pain. Whenever you have an imbalance in one part of the body, others will try to offset it. So, they experience their own tug-of-war.

Imbalances in the spine, hips, and even the ankles can all become knee pain causes. They often need to be treated together to regain natural, fluid movement from top to bottom. That leads us to the next of the common knee pain causes.

6. Poor Posture and Alignment

Having good posture and proper alignment is crucial for maintaining healthy knees. When your posture is off, or your joints are misaligned, it can create an uneven distribution of force on your knees.

Imagine a building with a crooked foundation. The walls and floors become strained. They develop cracks. Similarly, poor alignment can put excessive stress on your knee joints. The result? Pain and potential damage!

7. Joint Inflammation

Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can lead to chronic knee pain. Inflammation is like a fire within your joints, causing redness, swelling, and pain.

Inflammation gets a bad rap. But it’s the body’s natural defense mechanisms trying to send help to your joints when it senses they’re in distress.

Unfortunately, the immune system sometimes goes into overdrive, attacking the joints by mistake. This ongoing inflammation can erode the protective cartilage in your knees, leading to persistent pain and stiffness.

Wondering that’s causing your knee pain? Schedule a knee pain assessment.

8. Meniscal Tears

A sudden twisting or turning motion can cause a tear in the meniscus. This is a rubbery cartilage that acts as a cushion between your thighbone and shinbone.

Think of the meniscus as a shock-absorbing sponge. When it tears, it disrupts the smooth movement of your knee joint, resulting in pain, swelling, and sometimes a locking or catching sensation.

If you’re wondering what causes sudden knee pain and stiffness? This could be it!

Knee pain meniscus symptoms include:

Pain when rotating
Pain when running or walking for a long time
Limited range of motion
Popping sounds during movement
Locked knee
Fluid on the knee

9. Bursitis

When you overuse your knees or experience direct trauma, the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs) in your knee joint can become inflamed, leading to pain and swelling. The best thing you can do is take it easy and avoid activities that worsen the pain.

But it’s also important to keep the joints moving with gentle movements so it doesn’t lock up. Guided exercises with a professional can help.

10. Patellar Tendinitis

If you frequently engage in activities like running or jumping, you might experience patellar tendinitis. This happens when the tendon connecting your kneecap to your shinbone becomes irritated and inflamed.

11. Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome

Do you feel pain in the outer part of your knee? Outer knee pain causes an IT band irritation called iliotibial band syndrome.

This fibrous tissue, running from your hip to your knee, can become inflamed from repetitive friction. Stretching and strengthening exercises can help alleviate the discomfort.

12. Knee Osteochondritis Dissecans

Sometimes, a small piece of bone and cartilage within your knee joint can lose its blood supply, causing pain. Be mindful of this condition if you’re a younger athlete as its one of the more common joint pain causes among young adults. But if you engage in activities that stress your knees at any age you could develop it.

13. Gout

Experiencing sudden and intense knee pain? It could be gout. Gout is among joint pain dietary causes. Poor diet can cause excess uric acid crystals build up in your joints, including the knee, leading to severe pain, redness, and swelling. Too much red and cured meats are your most likely culprits but fermented foods and seafood can also contribute. All are full of purine when breaks down into uric acid.

Stay hydrated, limit purine-rich foods, and consult a healthcare professional for proper management.

14. Infections

While it’s rare, infections can cause knee pain. If you have an open wound, recent surgery, or notice signs of infection such as warmth, redness, and extreme pain, seek immediate medical attention. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent further complications.

15. Genetic Factors

Sometimes, genetics can play a role in knee problems and chronic pain. Inherited conditions or abnormalities in joint structure may make your knees more vulnerable to injury or degeneration.

16. Improper Footwear

Wearing shoes without proper support or an incorrect fit can contribute to knee pain. Your knees need stability and alignment. Choose shoes that provide adequate cushioning, arch support, and a comfortable fit to minimize stress on your knee joints.

17. Traumatic Injuries

Accidents happen, and direct impacts, falls, or sudden twists can cause traumatic knee injuries like fractures or dislocations. If you experience severe pain, swelling, or visible deformities after such an incident, seek immediate medical attention for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

18. Osgood-Schlatter Disease

If you’re an active teenager, you may be at risk of Osgood-Schlatter disease. This overuse injury can cause pain and swelling just below your kneecap. Resting, avoiding activities that worsen the pain, and doing gentle exercises recommended by a healthcare professional can help alleviate symptoms.

The Root Cause of Most Knee Pain

Believe it or not, the root cause of most knee pain lies in the alignment of your spine. Not all, but many of the above conditions (including those we think of as “age-related” like arthritis and chronic inflammation) start because your body’s core (the spine) isn’t on track.

Your spine acts as the central support structure for your entire body, and when it is misaligned, it can create a chain reaction of imbalances throughout your musculoskeletal system. This misalignment can lead to altered weight distribution, increased stress on your knee joints, and abnormal movement patterns, resulting in knee pain.

By addressing the root cause of spinal misalignment through chiropractic care or other therapies, you can restore balance to your body, alleviate knee pain, and enhance overall well-being

Could spinal misalignment be the root cause of your knee pain? You need to know now. Reach out to schedule a consultation.

Stop Knee Pain: How a Chiropractor Can Help

A chiropractor is a healthcare professional specializing in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, including knee pain. They use their hands or specialized tools to apply gentle pressure and manipulations to your body, helping to restore proper alignment and function.

Chiropractic Care for Knee Pain

The human body is like a complex machine with many interconnected parts. Your knees, for example, are not isolated entities but are influenced by the alignment and movement of other joints and muscles. A chiropractor looks at your body as a whole and examines how various factors might contribute to your knee pain.

Addressing Spinal Alignment

For example, if your hips or pelvis are not properly aligned, it can put uneven pressure on your knees, leading to pain and discomfort. A chiropractor can use manual adjustments to realign these areas, reducing the stress on your knees and improving their function.

Correcting Muscle Imbalances

Another way a chiropractor can help is by addressing muscle imbalances. If certain muscles are too tight or weak, it can affect the alignment and movement of your knees, leading to pain.

We all get used to doing things a certain way. And the human body naturally tries to take the path of least resistance. Unfortunately, this leads to the strengthening of certain muscles while others remain weak, resulting in strain and overcompensation when you need to use that weaker muscle. A chiropractor can prescribe specific exercises or stretches to help rebalance and strengthen these muscles, supporting your knees and reducing pain.

Assessing Knee Pain Causes & If Chiropractic Care Can Help

It’s important to note that while chiropractic care can be beneficial for many individuals with knee pain, there are certain cases where it may not be the most appropriate treatment option. For example, if your knee pain is due to a severe injury, fracture, or infection, you may require more specialized medical care. A chiropractor will assess your condition and, if necessary, refer you to the appropriate healthcare professional.

Comprehensive Knee Pain Relief Strategies

Furthermore, a chiropractor can employ other therapeutic techniques to alleviate knee pain. This may include nutrition guidance, shockwave therapy, Knee on Trac, and acupuncture. These methods can help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and provide relief while ongoing chiropractic visits can help your musculoskeletal system obtain and retain proper alignment.

Let’s take a quick look at some of the other Integrative health approaches your Truspine Chiropractor may recommend to alleviate knee pain. Reach out to schedule a consultation and get your first treatment.

Nutrition for Knee Pain

Did you know your eating habits can impact your knee health and pain levels? It’s true! Proper nutrition is crucial in supporting your joints and reducing inflammation, which can alleviate knee pain.

Omega 3

One essential nutrient for maintaining healthy knees is omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have found that Omega-3 can reduce inflammation and relieve “tender” joints. These healthy fats can be found in foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds. Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and pain in your knees.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is also important. This vitamin is known for its role in collagen formation, which is a key component of healthy cartilage. Citrus fruits, strawberries, and broccoli are excellent sources of Vitamin C.

Turmeric

Along the same note, the Journal of Medical Food published a systematic review of joint pain studies and controlled clinical trials involving the spice Turmeric. This spice is common in many world cuisines, including Indian, Thai, Malay, and Japanese. Adding this spice to your meals, smoothies, or coffee may support your knee pain relief goals.

Supporting Healthy Weight with Nutrition

Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight through proper nutrition is essential for knee health. As we discussed, excess weight puts additional strain on your knees, increasing the risk of pain and conditions like osteoarthritis. By adopting a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, you can support your knees and promote overall joint health.

Working with the Truspine team, you can learn more about nutrition and stay motivated to eat foods that support healthy joints and whole body health.

Acupuncture for Knee Pain

Chances are you’ve heard of acupuncture by now. It’s an ancient Chinese practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. Believe it or not, acupuncture can actually help alleviate knee pain!

In acupuncture, the belief is that when these specific points are stimulated, it can restore the balance of energy flow throughout your body. Regarding knee pain, acupuncture can help by promoting blood circulation to the area, reducing inflammation, and triggering the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals in your body.

With that said, acupuncture works best for short-term relief. It should be combined with chiropractic care that gets to the root cause (spinal misalignment) that is likely to cause extra stress on your knees. When you realign your musculoskeletal system, you support your body’s natural ability to heal those joints for more lasting relief.

The process of acupuncture itself is relatively painless. The needles are incredibly thin. Most people report minimal to no discomfort during the treatment. Many individuals find acupuncture to be a relaxing and therapeutic experience.

Shockwave Therapy for Knee Pain

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that can relieve knee pain. This therapy uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing and reduce knee pain.

When the shockwave device is applied to the affected area, it delivers controlled energy pulses. These pulses stimulate your body’s natural healing response by increasing blood flow, promoting tissue regeneration, and reducing knee inflammation.

Shockwave therapy is typically performed in several sessions, each lasting about 10-15 minutes. The number of sessions you’ll need will depend on the severity of your knee pain, your body’s response to the treatment, and how you’re progressing with other therapies like chiropractic.

One of the benefits of shockwave therapy is that it is non-invasive, meaning there are no incisions or needles involved. It is generally well-tolerated and has minimal side effects.

However, it’s important to note that shockwave therapy may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions or who are pregnant should consult with their healthcare provider before undergoing this treatment.

The licensed professionals at Truspine can evaluate your condition, determine if you’re a good candidate, and provide the appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs.

Ultrasound Therapy for Knee Pain

Have you ever wondered how ultrasound technology can be used to treat knee pain? Well, wonder no more! Ultrasound therapy is a non-invasive treatment option to help alleviate knee pain and promote healing. Physical therapists, chiropractors, and medical doctors commonly use it because it works.

Ultrasound therapy involves using high-frequency sound waves that penetrate deep into the tissues of your knee. These sound waves create a gentle heat within the targeted area, promoting increased blood circulation, relaxing tight muscles, and reducing pain and inflammation.

The procedure is painless and typically takes only a few minutes. A healthcare professional will apply a gel to your knee and then move a handheld device, called an ultrasound transducer, over the area. You may feel a warm sensation during the treatment, but it should not be uncomfortable.

The benefits of ultrasound therapy for knee pain are numerous. It can help to decrease swelling, improve flexibility and range of motion, and accelerate the healing process by promoting the delivery of nutrients to the affected area. Ultrasound therapy is often used in conjunction with other treatment modalities to maximize its effectiveness.

Therapies like this temporarily provide relief, allowing you to perform manual or guided exercises to strengthen the surrounding muscles and tissues for more lasting results.

Knee on Trac

Knee on Trac^TM is a specialized traction device that isolates the knee and takes it through targeted movements using proper. This strengthen knee tissues to support good knee alignment and retrained the knee to function more effectively going forward. Through continued treatments it can:

Increase range of motion
Reduce swelling
Improve oxygen and nutrient delivery to deprived cells
Speed the knee healing process

Get lasting relief from knee pain. Reach out to schedule a consultation with first Knee on Trac treatment.

Download our Knee on Trac Brochure.

Learn all about the conditions treated, benefits and contraindications.

Effective Treatment and Prevention for Most Knee Pain Causes

Remember: if you’ve had knee surgery, post-operative complications such as infections, blood clots, or poor healing can cause pain, you need medical care. Follow your surgeon’s instructions, attend follow-up appointments, and report any concerns promptly. The therapies discussed here are not an alternative to medical care.

With that said, knee pain causes are most often mechanical in nature. Fixing how your body moves can stop the pain and further damage (depending on the cause). In many cases, you won’t need surgery.

Understanding these causes of knee pain empowers you to take better care of your knees, seek appropriate treatment, and make lifestyle adjustments to prevent further discomfort.

The team of licensed professionals at Truspine would like to support you through that journey. We can evaluate if mechanical factors like misalignments, imbalances, or muscle weakness are among your knee pain causes and develop a plan to reduce the pain and keep you moving and enjoying what you love. Reach out to schedule a knee pain assessment and even get your first Knee on Trac treatment.

FAQs about Knee Pain Causes

What causes sudden knee pain and stiffness?

Sudden knee pain and stiffness can be caused by acute injuries such as ligament sprains, meniscus tears, or muscle strains.

What is the most common cause of knee pain?

The most common cause of knee pain is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that results in the breakdown of cartilage. Other common causes of knee pain include overuse injuries, ligament tears, and tendonitis. It’s important to remember that these don’t just happen. Something caused it. That something is often another cause we’ve discussed, like spinal misalignment, overuse, and underuse. Yes. Sitting and lying around a lot leads to a lot a knee pain.

Chiropractic care can reduce the pain experienced from these by getting to the root cause and helping you strengthen and align supportive structures to reduce inflammation and pain.

What causes knee pain and swelling?

Knee pain and swelling can be caused by various factors such as injuries, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or infection.

What makes your knees hurt?

Several factors can contribute to knee pain, including overuse, repetitive strain, improper form during physical activities, muscle imbalances, excess weight, or structural abnormalities in the knee joint.

What causes knee pain when bending?

Knee pain when bending can be caused by conditions such as meniscus tears or arthritis.

What causes knee pain on the side?

Knee pain on the side can be attributed to conditions like iliotibial band syndrome, lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injury, or meniscus tears. A thorough evaluation can help identify the specific cause and determine if chiropractic care can reduce knee pain.

What causes knee pain when running?

Knee pain when running can be caused by several factors, including overuse injuries like patellofemoral pain syndrome, IT band syndrome, or stress fractures. Evaluating running technique (including spinal alignment), wearing proper footwear, and gradually increasing intensity can help prevent running-related knee pain.

Can knee pain be caused by obesity?

Yes, whether it’s made of muscle or fat, excess weight puts additional stress on the knee joints, increasing the risk of knee pain and conditions like osteoarthritis.

Are sports-related injuries a common cause of knee pain?

Yes, sports-related injuries, such as ligament and meniscal tears, are common causes of knee pain, especially in activities involving sudden stops or changes in direction. Your Truspine chiropractor can perform imaging tests to evaluate the cause of your knee pain and build a plan that supports your healing process.

Can improper footwear cause knee pain?

Yes, wearing shoes without adequate support or a proper fit can contribute to knee pain by altering your gait and placing additional stress on the knees.

Can knee pain be caused by muscle imbalances?

Yes, muscle imbalances, where certain muscles are stronger or tighter than others, can affect the alignment and movement of the knees, leading to pain.

Reach out to schedule a knee pain assessment and even get your first Knee on Trac treatment.

Woman needing Knee Pain Relief - TruSpine Chiropractic in San Francisco

Top 5 Knee Exercises

09/10/202409/30/2019 by Supreet Shah

Home » knee pain relief

Knee pain happens when something turns out badly with your knee joints and muscles surrounding the knee. As a rule, this happens due to meniscus damage or tendonitis with possible overuse. Exercising is important for any person’s overall good health. However, for people with moderate or severe Knee pain, we recommend an SF chiropractor’s assessment first.