Knee Pain and Arthritis Injuries

Arthritis is one of the most common, chronic musculoskeletal disorders, particularly affecting the knee joints.

A recent study found that for a majority of patients, non-operative options for management and symptom control were not fully exploited and explored prior to surgery (Atifosan and Chettiar, 2006)

The two major types of Arthritis causing knee pain are;

• Inflammatory Arthritis- in theses disorders the joint lining becomes inflamed. This damages the surface of the joint and underlying bone.
• Osteoarthritis, where the normally smooth cartilage surface softens and becomes pitted and frayed. As the cartilage breaks down, the joint may lose its normal shape.

Symptoms consist of joint aches, stiffness and roughness on motion. Often the knee can also lock and give way particularly after heavy use or twisting movements.

Physiotherapy can help manage these symptoms with Acupuncture, Electrotherapy (Tens machine), strengthening exercises particularly of the thigh muscles (Quadriceps), advice on activity, mobilisation and stretches around the knee joint.

These treatments all help to reduce the pressure on the knee joint, improve mobility and in turn reduce the effects of Arthritis- PAIN.