Physical Therapy For Knee Pain - Why Is It The Best?

For Dev who loved to be on his feet all day, the knee pain came as a big deterrent. It was not only physically painful, it was also emotionally stressful as it limited his movement. Walking down or up two flights of stairs would leave him bending down and tugging at his knees. The knee pain, which was diagnosed due to arthritis, was as a result of overexertion. His doctor told him to manage his workout properly and came up with a balanced exercise routine, which provided great relief. Now, he is back to his normal workout.

While most of us think of exercise as good, it has its own drawbacks too.

The knees are the most important joints that allow for the movement of a person. The patella or the knee joint connects the thigh bone and the shin bone via a complicated knee joint is Hinge joint to allow for movement. However, knee pain can happen with the below reasons which can limit motion and cause pain and swelling.

1. Injury/trauma
2. Aging
3. Infections
4. Autoimmune disorders

Whatever be the cause, knee pain limits movement. A detailed diagnosis including case history to discuss symptom pattern and imaging (if required) can help confirm the exact reason. A blood test may be required to confirm rheumatoid arthritis.

There are medications available for all these conditions – antibiotics for infections, anti-inflammatory for osteoarthritis, and immunomodulatory drugs for rheumatoid arthritis. However, for most people with knee pain, for best results, physical therapy should be a part of management.

While generic knee exercises are good too, depending on the affected area and the severity of the condition, specific exercises may be required. There also could be specifications around the frequency and duration of the exercise.

The best workout for people with knee pain include:

1. Stationary bike: This is highly effective for people with knee pain.
2. Treadmill: Managed at a slow, rhythmic speed, it does wonders for the knee.
3. Elliptical: this also is not hard on the knees and provides a good low-impact, aerobic workout.
4. Get in touch with a physical therapist who can prescribe exercises for about 15 minutes daily which can keep the knee pain away.
   • Leg stretches for about 10 repeats where the knee tendons and ligaments get nicely stretched and worked out
   • Knee bends, knee extensions, knee stabilizations, and straight leg raise work on these joints and muscles.

While painkillers definitely help in relieving pain, the more effective way to manage knee pain is with physical therapy. It promotes blood flow, improves sensation, and keeps the tendons and ligaments agile – all enabling better knee movement with less pain. In case you have a concern or query you can always consult with Orthopedic Doctors in Pune and get answers to your questions!