An in-depth look at Physiotherapy and knee pain
In this article we want to cover some of the commonly asked questions about Physio for knee pain or knee injuries. There are a lot of different injuries and sources of pain related to the knee.
Is knee physiotherapy painful?
Generally speaking, it shouldn’t really hurt much, but you will be aware that the injured area is being worked on, with the greater goal being to reduce the overall pain and improve function. Your physiotherapist may utilise soft tissue techniques, alongside a therapeutic exercise program for you to undertake within the clinic and at home. They may also choose to use specialist equipment such as a Game Ready Med4 Elite unit for cryotherapy or an AlterG treadmill if they have access to such equipment. Lastly and almost most importantly is the education side of what your Physiotherapist can provide, they will inform you of a clear diagnosis, prognosis and what to do/avoid to ensure the best outcome.
How long does knee Physio take?
This will be largely dependent on the injury itself and the tissue involved i.e a small irritation to tissue compared to a large tear or rupture, so let’s take a few common options and discuss them in further detail. As a general rule most tissue in the body will heal within a 6-weeks time frame. This of course assumes several things:
The damaged tissue has been able to be adequately rested
Further aggravation to the tissue area has been avoided over this time frame
The tissue initially damaged has a good blood supply and natural capacity to heal I.e muscle tissue
Within this timeframe, “most” knee injury issues can be resolved with the help and support of your physio. Their role is to help manage this process to ensure not only that the tissue can heal, but that it heals well. This means it heals and you are not left with a higher risk of re-injury or a reduction in function. This time frame would not relate to major knee injuries such as meniscal tears or ligament tears or any chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Can physiotherapy help with knee pain?
Yes, physiotherapy can help with knee pain. Knee pain can be caused by many different factors, so the initial way Physio can help is through a correct diagnosis. This can be done through clinical testing and or referring for scans such as MRI’s if needed. Once the correct diagnosis has been established your physiotherapist can then formulate a treatment plan including manual hands on therapy, a home or clinic/gym based exercise program as well as advice to assist the recovery process and endorse the best outcome.
Should I see a Physio for knee pain?
Physio’s are highly trained health professionals and can greatly assist with knee pain. With an intricate knowledge of anatomy and physiology, your local physiotherapist will be able to help you recover and return to the best that you can be. Before you see a Physio, make sure they are registered with AHRPA and have sufficient experience as a health professional.
How common are knee injuries in Australia?
A study in 2022 showed a significant increase in the rates of knee injuries in Australia. With an increasing annual incidence of knee injuries observed over a 20-year period. Males had a higher incidence of knee injury per capita than females, but the gap appears to be narrowing over the 20-year analysis period. Younger Australians showed a precipitous rise in the annual number of ACL injuries, particularly for females aged 5-14 years.
How many Physio sessions for knee pain?
Your initial consultation will allow your Physiotherapist to diagnose and formulate a treatment plan, included how many sessions will be needed. Most knee pain complaints can be resolved in 2-3 sessions but more complex conditions may need further consultations to get the best outcome.
When to see a Physio for knee pain?
The earlier you can present to your physiotherapist, the better. Injuries can easily progress, delaying their potential to heal and recover. Additionally, when injured and individual will usually walk differently and move differently, placing greater weight on other tissue and increase the likelihood of damaging something else.
Hopefully this helps answer some of the most common questions about knee pain. If you suffer any knee pain call our experienced and professional team HERE to help you recover to your best.