September 3rd, 2019
If you suffer from hip or knee pain, you are in good company - many people experience hip or knee pain at some point in their lives. The hips and knees are the largest joints in your body, providing mobility and supporting your body’s weight. They serve important purposes, but it is also easy for them to become injured. If you are suffering from hip or knee pain, contact our office today to speak with a physical therapist, and find out how our physical therapy treatments can bring you mobility and relief.
What causes hip and knee pain?
There are a number of causes for hip pain, the most common being arthritis, sciatica, or a sprain. Arthritis - and more specifically, osteoarthritis - tends to be the most common culprit for hip pain. This occurs when the cartilage tissue in the hip breaks down, decreasing the ability for the cartilage to absorb shocks. Osteoarthritis can develop due to being overweight, increased age, or an injury in the joint. People suffering from osteoarthritis typically report stiffness in the joint or difficulty standing for long periods of time. Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is impinged, typically due to a strained muscle or a herniated disc. Sciatica pain can root itself in the hip and extend toward the buttocks and down the legs, ranging from moderate to severe.
Much like hip pain, there are a number of causes for knee pain as well, the most common being arthritis, injury, or mechanical problems with the knee. Knee injuries can affect the ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and bones that make up the knee. Symptoms of knee pain may include difficulty standing up from a sitting position, difficulty walking and running, or an uncomfortable “clicking” sound when moving the knee. ACL tears are a common knee injury that many athletes suffer from, occurring when the anterior cruciate ligament is torn.
How does physical therapy help with hip and knee pain?
The goal of every physical therapist is reducing pain and improving functional mobility. At your initial appointment, your physical therapist will perform a thorough physical evaluation to determine what the best treatment options will be for you. Afterward, he or she will create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs, focused on increasing strength, improving motion, and most importantly, relieving pain.
Your treatment plan will likely consist of both passive and active treatments. Passive treatments may include ice and heat therapies, massage therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation. Active treatments may include condition-specific exercises and stretches. All of these are aimed at reducing your pain and inflammation, in addition to accelerating your healing process.
Physical therapy is a natural way to relieve pain and promote healing, and in many cases, it eliminates the need for harmful drugs or invasive surgeries. If you are suffering from hip or knee pain, don’t suffer in silence. Our experienced and dedicated physical therapists will get to the root of your problem and work hard to correct it. Schedule your appointment today and get started on your path to recovery and long-lasting relief!
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