Everyone knows where their knees are, but not all the different parts of the knees. Knee area hinge joints that are comprised of the tibia (shin) and the femur (thigh). The patella, or kneecap, is located in the front of the knee, is supported by four ligaments and also has two shock absorbers, a meniscus, within the knee.

Pain in the knee can happen when the knee is exposed to repetitive trauma, strain, an injury or for no apparent reason. Most people report knee pain after a fall or car accident. Knee pain makes it very difficult to do everyday activities such as walking, rising from sitting or going up or down a flight of stairs.

If your knees are feeling bad, a physical therapist can determine if the pain is acute, sub-acute, or chronic in nature to help guide proper diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, the location of your knee pain can help determine which part of the knee is injured or damaged to help ensure the best possible treatment.

 A good way to reduce inflammation and pain in the knee is to apply the R.I.C.E. principle (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation). After a few days of R.I.C.E., you can begin to resume moderate activities. When R.I.C.E does not help or pain persists for more than a few weeks, a physical therapist should be consulted to ensure proper diagnosis and management.

Physical Therapy for Knee Pain

During your first visit, your physical therapist will interview you to gather information about the history of your problem, your current knee pain complaint and about any past medical history. From the information gathered during the history, a focused examination will be conducted that may consist of several sections including, but not limited to:

Gait evaluation

• Palpation
• Range of motion measurements
• Girth or swelling measurements
• Strength measurements
• Other special tests

After a detailed examination has been completed, your physical therapist can use the information collected to help you to initiate the correct treatment. Most patients are required to perform exercises at home as well. It is very important for you to be active and engaged in the program in order to recover and avoid further injury.

Knee Pain: Extra Care May Be Needed

Some patients need supportive aids such as crutches, brace or a cane, until they are able to walk on their own. Using these devices properly during physical therapy is essential to avoid further injury to the knee.

Always check with your physician or physical therapist if your knee pain is severe or lasts more than a few weeks. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with the best physical therapist in NYC.