Knee pain

Your Myotherapist specialises in the assessment, treatment, and management of musculoskeletal conditions affecting the knees and can help alleviate pain and improve function in various knee conditions.

​

Here are some common knee conditions that your Myotherapist may treat:

​

Muscle Strains and Tears: Your Myotherapist can assess the extent of muscle damage in the knee and surrounding areas through a physical examination and may use techniques such as massage, dry needling, stretching, and therapeutic exercises to promote healing and reduce muscle tension.

 

Ligament Sprains and Tears: Your Myotherapist can assess the stability and function of the ligaments in the knee joint and may use techniques like myofascial release, joint mobilisation, and proprioceptive exercises to improve ligament function and support.

 

Tendonitis/Tendinopathies: Your Myotherapist can evaluate the tendons around the knee for inflammation or degeneration and assess the biomechanics of the affected area. They may use deep tissue massage, stretching, and strengthening exercises to reduce inflammation and improve tendon function.

 

Osteoarthritis: In cases of knee osteoarthritis, your Myotherapist can provide pain management techniques such as manual therapy, hot/cold therapy, and exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint and improve joint mobility.

 

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee): Assessment involves examining the alignment of the patella (kneecap) and the mechanics of the patellofemoral joint. Treatment often includes soft tissue work, stretching, and strengthening exercises to address muscle imbalances and improve patellar tracking.

 

Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS): Your Myotherapist can assess the tightness and inflammation/irritation of the IT band and may employ techniques like myofascial release, stretching, and strengthening exercises to alleviate pain and tension.

 

Meniscus Injuries: Assessment may involve evaluating the range of motion and stability of the knee joint. Treatment typically includes manual therapy, exercises, and modalities to improve joint function and reduce pain.

 

Bursitis: Assessment involves identifying the inflamed bursa and addressing contributing factors. Treatment may include soft tissue work, joint mobilisation, and exercises to reduce inflammation and prevent recurrence.

 

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: Your Myotherapist can assist with post-operative knee rehabilitation by designing personalised exercise programs and employing manual therapy techniques to facilitate healing and restore function.

 

Assessment:

​

Here's how your Myotherapist typically assesses and treats knee pain:

​

Patient History: Your Myotherapist will begin by taking a detailed medical history, which includes asking about the onset and duration of knee pain, previous injuries or surgeries, activities that exacerbate or alleviate the pain, and any relevant medical conditions.

 

Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination is conducted to assess the knee joint and surrounding structures. This examination may include checking for swelling, tenderness, range of motion, and joint stability.

 

Muscle and Soft Tissue Assessment: Your Myotherapist will evaluate the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia around the knee for any signs of dysfunction, tightness, or imbalances. Palpation is often used to identify trigger points or areas of muscle tension.

 

Biomechanical Assessment: Your Myotherapist will assesses the patient's posture, gait, and movement patterns to identify any abnormalities or contributing factors to the knee pain.

 

Functional Testing: Functional tests, such as assessing squatting, walking, or jumping, may be performed to gauge how the knee functions during various activities.

 

Diagnostic Imaging: In some cases, your Myotherapist may refer patients for diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to obtain a more detailed view of the knee's internal structures when necessary.

​

Treatment:

​

Once the assessment is complete, your Myotherapist will develop a personalised treatment plan based on their findings. Treatment modalities may include:

​

Manual Therapy: Your Myotherapist will use hands-on techniques such as massage, myofascial release, dry needling and joint mobilisation to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote healing in the knee area.

 

Therapeutic Exercises: Your Myotherapist can  prescribe specific exercises to strengthen weak muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance joint stability. These exercises are often tailored to the patient's individual needs and may be part of a home exercise program.

 

Stretching: Gentle stretching exercises can help improve the flexibility of tight muscles and increase range of motion in the knee joint.

 

Modalities: Your Myotherapist may use modalities like heat or cold therapy, electrotherapy, dry needling and cupping to manage pain and inflammation.

 

Postural and Biomechanical Correction: If poor posture or biomechanical issues contribute to knee pain, your Myotherapist will provide guidance on improving alignment and movement patterns.

 

Education: Your Myotherapist will provide education about your condition, including lifestyle modifications, ergonomics, and self-care techniques to manage and prevent future knee pain.

 

Home Care: Patients are often given exercises and self-care techniques to continue at home between sessions to maintain and improve their progress.

 

Progress Monitoring: Your Myotherapist will track your progress throughout the treatment process and adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal outcomes.

​

Collaboration: Your Myotherapist can work alongside other healthcare professionals, such as orthopaedic surgeons, physiotherapists, and chiropractors, to provide comprehensive care for knee conditions.

 

Your Myotherapist aims to address the underlying causes of knee pain, rather than just alleviating symptoms. The holistic approach considers the interconnectedness of muscles, joints, and soft tissues to promote healing and improve function in the knee and surrounding areas. Treatment duration and frequency will vary depending on the severity and complexity of the knee condition.