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Knee pain and disability is prevalent, second only to spinal conditions within the musculoskeletal system. Conditions concerning the knee can be classified into several classes including improper mechanics of the knee and faulty foot mechanics as the result of foot pain, general overuse of the knee joint,  problems due to arthritic changes in the joint, and traumatic injury from events such as sports and falls.

Non-trauma knee problems: The most prevailing cause of non-traumatic pain is insufficient mechanics of the knee joint and the corresponding stress on the soft tissues of the knee. The patella or knee-cap is generally the area affected because frequently the patella does not move adequately on the femur during bending of the knee producing abnormal stress on the tendons, cartilage and ligaments. This specific condition is normally called chondromalacia patella (CMP) or Patella Femoral Syndrome (Knee Cap Pain). This problem is due to imbalances in the quadriceps muscles of the thigh that join to and move the patella. Lower back ailments, especially in the sacroiliac joints, are one of the main reasons for imbalances in the muscles related to knee movement, and resultant knee problems. Pain and dysfunction can also be generated by imbalances in the muscle groups that attach to the knee. For example, the muscles on the inside of the thigh, when strained and tight, can produce pain on the medial or inside of the knee.   Deficient foot mechanics that create gait deviations such as pronation, are an additional cause of mechanical knee pain.

The associated pain from overuse is most frequently felt during activity, especially stair climbing, running, jumping, and subsequent getting up from prolonged sitting. Some women appear to be predisposed to painful overuse problems for anatomical reasons, although such conditions are often due to wearing high heels on a regular basis.

It is important to re-establish proper muscle balance, restore appropriate motion to the patella and other knee joints, and to correct any subluxations of the sacroiliac joints and bones of the foot.  In certain cases, a brace is adopted to assist with the adjustment of the patella or to support the joint. Chiropractors, such as your San Jose chiropractor, are completely trained to render the correct diagnosis and treatment of these problems.

Knee problems due to trauma: Traumatic injuries commonly take place during physical exertion that involves running and jumping, especially. When the knee is stretched or twisted beyond the capability of the ligaments that hold the joint together, tearing of these tissues can take place causing a sprain. Strains to muscles that facilitate movement of the knee can take place when the muscles are torn during injury. As with a sprain, a muscle strain can vary from a mild injury that necessitates little care to a serious injury needing surgery. The knee also has two special “cartilages” – the menisci – between the tibia and the femur that facilitate fluid motion and cushioning. These cartilages can also be torn during trauma, and often necessitate surgical repair, or even removal if damaged severely.

Traumatic knee injuries can create serious pain and swelling and need urgent examination and care. In the majority of cases a competent chiropractor, such as your San Jose Chiropractor, can treat these types of injuries, however there are some injuries that do need the dexterity of an orthopedic surgeon. Whatever the case, it is vital to stabilize the injured joint as soon as possible and to use ice on the hurt area, if possible, until the injury can be assessed.

If poor mechanics, overuse problems, or traumatic injuries are not corrected at an early stage, the tissues of the knee joint, expressly the cartilage, will begin to wear out sooner or later. In that event the bones will rub on one another, and changes such as bone spurs can eventuate. This painful condition, known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis, commonly advances with age. General treatment may involve medications such as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Fortunately, there are natural anti-inflammatory supplements that are highly effectual such as rosemary, glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, bioflavinoids, curcumin. Conservative treatment, such as chiropractic, can be extremely helpful in relieving the pain. Your San Jose chiropractor is very knowledgeable about anti-inflammatory supplements. In addition, individuals can often aid themselves by keeping their weight down, doing exercises (especially in the pool), and wearing cushioned shoes or insoles.