Ways To Combat Knee Pain
If you’re experiencing knee pain, you know how limiting it is. You can’t perform most forms of exercise, and even minor daily chores can become difficult.
The Knee Joint
The knee is a complex joint that relies heavily on ligaments and muscles for stability.
The knee is a major weight bearing joint and is composed of:
- the tibiofemoral joint (between the thigh and lower leg)
- the patellofemoral joint (between the kneecap and the thigh),
- muscles and ligaments, which gives active and passive stability to the knee.
- two ring-shaped cartilage discs in the knee called the menisci (one meniscus).
When dealing with knee pain, you’ll want to take the following action:
1. Identify the Cause of Your Knee Pain
In most cases knee pain is caused by one of the following:
- Arthritis
- A tear, strain, or sprain
When determining the cause of the pain, all the anatomical components need to be examined. Instead of just considering the knee, it’s important to check the alignment of the low back, pelvis, hip, ankle, and foot to determine how a person’s posture, walk, and general alignment may influence or stress the knee.
2. Take Immediate Action to Reduce Swelling and Promote Healing
Most knee pain responds well to:
- Elevation – Prop your leg up on a stool or coffee table
- Ice – Ice for 10-15 minutes at a time several times a day
- Heat – Alternate icing with the use of heat, also for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day
- Rest – Give your knee a break from most activity and weight-bearing pressure
- Gentle exercise – Try exercising in a pool, performing non-weight-bearing exercises that do not strain your knee at all
3. Seek Out Natural Forms of Pain Relief and Healing
Most Americans immediately pop pain pills the minute they get knee pain. Instead, choose a natural form of pain relief that is far more effective and will not stress your liver or have unwanted side effects. Acupuncture is one of the most recognized natural forms of pain relief since it is both effective and has no side effects.
4. See Your Doctor About Recovery Options
As a chiropractor and acupuncturist, Dr. Doyle typically takes steps to normalize joint function such as manipulation and mobilization techniques to areas of restricted movement in the knee and surrounding joints. These adjustments increase movement, improve knee joint function and promote healing.
Dr. Doyle supplements recovery with acupuncture, which alleviates pain and promotes blood flow so that healing happens more quickly and completely.
wers, and find a natural way to live your healthiest life possible.
