Knee pain can keep you from moving. Whether it was an injury or arthritis. Your knee is a big part of daily movement. However, many times you may not feel like moving since you are in pain. As a matter of fact, physical therapy may be just what you need to help your knee pain. Even if you do not feel like getting physical.
Physical therapy (PT) is designed to ease your pain. It helps keep you moving and builds strength and flexibility. A physical therapist can find the right program for you. Sometimes it can be all you need. In fact, many people don’t require surgery.
Physical therapy includes healing remedies, such as:
- Targeted exercise
- Stretches
- Heat and ice therapy
- Ultrasound massage
- Electrical nerve/muscle stimulation
Also, see: How to make your own hot and cold packs
In the event, you do need surgery, PT can also help recovery! Many surgeons will recommend a physical therapist first though. It is a good idea to start healing right away.
The First Session to Help Your Knee Pain
A physical therapist will develop your treatment plan. However, the exact plan will depend on your injury. They will look to rebuild strength and movement. The goal is to get you back to doing what you like to do. They will examine your leg, such as, how it bends, moves, and straightens.
Most importantly, they look at the following:
- How well you can balance
- Where the pain is located
- If it is hard for you to stand
- Any weakness in the leg muscles
- How the movement of the leg affects pain
You may be asked to hop or use a treadmill, which helps to identify trouble areas. Often a PT will also recommend support items for your recovery. And these can include crutches, braces, and special shoes.
What Happens Next?
It’s your turn to start strengthening your leg. You want to make your muscles stronger. This reduces stress on the knee. You will get exercises at home to practice. Strength training is the key to recovery. Typical strength training include the following:
- Step-ups
- Hamstring curls
- Wall squats
- Straight leg lifts
- Single leg dips
You will also need to practice balancing exercises. Start slowly and do more as you get stronger. Maybe even add weights eventually. Follow the advice of the physical therapist when it comes to this. If anything hurts, let them know right away. Never do any exercise that causes pain. A little soreness is normal. So make sure you rest.
In addition to at-home exercises, the therapist may use TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation.) Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is another helpful therapy. It uses electrical stimulation to improve strength. Firstly, electrodes are placed above the knee. Then, wires connect to the TENS machine. And small electrical currents stimulate blood flow. Therefore, helping ease muscle and joint pain.
So, if you are looking to ease your knee pain, call us at 888-409-8006. Sometimes, the best way to help your knee pain is through physical therapy!
