Knee Complaints
The knee is a synovial hinge joint which is formed between the thighbone (femur), lower leg bone (tibia) and kneecap (patella). Between the condyles of the thighbone and the lower leg bone are the two meniscus which are grown together with the joint capsule.
For a good stability of the knee joint there are a couple of complex ligaments, to support the knee in all its movements. Also, there are numerous bursas which allow the smooth movements of the joint. The main movements of the knee are the flexion and extension, but also reduced internal and external rotation is possible.
Acute knee pain can start for example with a wrong movement, falling on the knee or twisting the knee during sport. But knee problems can be found also without a trauma or accident. Sometimes they can be solved with rest, ice application and easy movements, but that’s not always the case. If your knee pain persists over a couple of days, it is recommended to contact your doctor and, if indicated, to start with physiotherapy.
Symptoms of knee injuries
The symptoms of knee complaints are depending completely on their cause. An overview of symptoms that may occur :
- Swelling of the knee
- Warmth feeling in the knee
- Blocked movement
- Loading problems
- Joint pain
- Loss of motion
- Lack of strength
- Limping
Causes of knee injuries
- Inflammations of the tendons or bursas (Bursitis)
- Irritation of the muscles and tendons around the knee, like with Jumper’s knee
- Tense muscles and/or sticky fascia structure around the knee, hip and feet
- Knee instability
- Underdevelopment of the knee muscles
- Meniscus problems
- Injury/ruptures of the soft tissue, like rupture of cruciate ligamants
- Arthrosis
- Trauma
- Congenital disorders
- Knee replacement or surgery
- Irradiation pain towards the knee from for example the feet or hip
- Fibromyalgia
Consultation and treatment
In the first session of physiotherapy, we will start with an intake conversation and examination of the knee and, if necessary, other joints.
After that we will inform you about your problem, give you advice and explain the treatment plan to you. The treatment can consist of manual physiotherapy, therapeutic massage, lymphatic drainage or fascia therapy. We will use mobilisation exercises to get back the knee’s range of motion and therapeutic exercises for the flexibility, stability, strength, proprioception and inner balance of the knee.
If indicated, we will improve your walking style and support you with home exercises.