Evidence-Based Strategies for Knee Pain Management
Knee pain can be a persistent challenge, but there are evidence-based strategies that empower individuals to take control of their discomfort and regain mobility. Whether your knee pain stems from arthritis, injury or overuse, incorporating these proven methods into your routine can make a significant difference.
Targeted Exercise Programs
Engaging in targeted exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the knee is a cornerstone of effective pain management. Physical therapy programs tailored to individual needs can address muscle imbalances, improve joint stability and reduce pain. These exercises may include quadriceps strengthening, hamstring stretches and low-impact activities like swimming.
Joint-Friendly Activities
Choosing activities that are gentle on the joints can help manage knee pain. Opt for low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling or elliptical training, which provide cardiovascular benefits without putting excessive strain on the knees. These activities promote joint health and reduce the risk of exacerbating pain.
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for managing knee pain, particularly in cases of osteoarthritis. Extra body weight places additional stress on the knee joints, contributing to pain and inflammation. Adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise routine can aid in weight management, alleviating strain on the knees.
Assistive Devices and Braces
Incorporating assistive devices, such as knee braces or orthotics, can provide additional support and stability. These tools are designed to reduce strain on the knee joints and facilitate proper alignment, offering relief for various conditions, including arthritis and ligament injuries.
Physical Therapy Interventions
Seeking professional guidance through physical therapy is a key component to knee pain relief. Our expert therapists employ evidence-based techniques, personalized exercise regimens and manual therapies to address the root causes of knee pain and enhance overall joint function.
Take the first step toward a pain-free life. If you’re ready to experience relief from knee pain, schedule an appointment with our experienced physical therapists. Your journey to improved mobility and comfort begins here. Invest in your well-being – call us at (402) 682-4210 to schedule your appointment today.
Sources:
Efficacy of physiotherapy management of knee joint osteoarthritis: a randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial, Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases 2005
Role of muscle in the genesis and management of knee osteoarthritis, Rheumatic Disease Clinics
Aquatic exercise for the treatment of knee and hip osteoarthritis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Exercise for osteoarthritis of the knee: a Cochrane systematic review, British Journal of Sports Medicine
Effect of weight reduction in obese patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis, Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
Weight loss and exercise for communities with arthritis in North Carolina (we-can): design and rationale of a pragmatic, assessor-blinded, randomized controlled trial, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons clinical practice guideline on the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, JBJS
Strength training alone, exercise therapy alone, and exercise therapy with passive manual mobilisation each reduce pain and disability in people with knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review, Journal of physiotherapy
Effectiveness of manual physical therapy and exercise in osteoarthritis of the knee, Annals of internal medicine