Unlock Pain-Free Knees With Chiropractic

Knee pain is no fun. It’s a common nuisance, and in some cases, it’s debilitating. As we age, it can become more prominent. Luckily, chiropractors are here to help.

“As people get older, they lose strength in their legs and knees; that is where the pain sets in, and Chiropractic can help retrain those muscles,” said Christophe Dean, DC (Doctor of Chiropractic), a member of the Michigan Chiropractors Association’s Public Education Committee.

What is Knee Pain?

Cleveland Clinic states knee pain is discomfort felt in or around the knee joint, where the thigh bone (femur) meets the shin bone (tibia). As the body’s largest joint, the knee supports significant weight and is prone to injuries. Pain can be temporary or chronic, requiring medical diagnosis and treatment. It may originate from muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, or cartilage and can radiate to other parts of the leg.

What Causes Knee Pain?

Knee pain is caused by injuries (like ruptured ligaments or torn cartilage), medical conditions (such as arthritis, gout, and infections), the Mayo Clinic states.

According to John Hopkins Medicine, other causes include aging and repetitive stress. Daily activities, including walking, bending, and lifting, can cause knee pain in adults. Athletes who run, jump, or pivot quickly are also prone to knee problems. 

Symptoms of Knee Pain

An article from the Mayo Clinic lists possible symptoms, including:

• Swelling and stiffness
• Redness and warmth
• Weakness or instability
• Popping or crunching noises
• Inability to fully straighten the knee

Common Knee Problems

John Hopkins Medicine highlights some of the most common types of knee pain and their causes:

• Sprains/Strains: Caused by a blow or twist, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.
• Torn Cartilage: Often involving the menisci, requiring braces or surgery.
• Tendonitis: Inflammation from overuse, common in sports like basketball.
• Arthritis:
  • Osteoarthritis: Degenerative due to cartilage wear, often from injury or being overweight.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Autoimmune, inflaming and destroying cartilage, affecting younger individuals.

How to Get Rid of Knee Pain with Chiropractic Care

According to Healthline, chiropractic treatment for knee pain is tailored to the cause, symptoms, and contributing factors. The treatment plan addresses whether knee pain is primary or compensatory, considering other body areas that may affect knee alignment and function.

Below are some common knee conditions chiropractors can treat:

• Osteoarthritis (OA): This condition involves the breakdown of knee cartilage due to age or injury, leading to bone friction, pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An inflammatory autoimmune disorder causing swelling, stiffness, and potential damage to bones, joints, and cartilage over time.
• Meniscal Injury: Tears in the meniscus caused by aging, arthritis, or forceful twisting/rotating of the knee.
• Patellar Tendonitis: Inflammation and weakness in the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone. It is commonly seen in athletes due to repetitive injury.