Non-trauma knee problems: Insufficient mechanics of the knee joint and the corresponding stress on the soft tissues of the knee are, by far, the most common cause of non-traumatic pain. Generally, the part of the knee implicated is the patella or knee-cap. Frequently the patella does not move smoothly or does not move adequately on the femur during bending of the knee producing undue stress on the tendons, cartilage and ligaments. This specific condition is frequently called chondromalacia patella (CMP) or Patella Femoral Syndrome (Knee Cap Pain). The condition usually originates when there are imbalances in the quadriceps muscles of the thigh that attach to and move the patella. Lower back ailments, especially in the sacroiliac joints, are one of the primary reasons for imbalances in the muscles related to knee movement, and subsequent knee problems. Pain and dysfunction can also be produced 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 create pain on the medial or inside of the knee.   Faulty foot mechanics that cause gait deviations such as pronation, are another cause of mechanical knee pain.

Evidence of overuse includes pain during activities such as climbing stairs, running, jumping, as well as pain upon getting up after prolonged sitting. Many women are likely to be predisposed to painful overuse problems for anatomical reasons, although such ailments are often caused by 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 specific cases, a brace is used to assist with the positioning of the patella or to support the joint. Chiropractors, such as your San Jose chiropractor, are highly experienced in administering the appropriate diagnosis and care of these problems.

Knee problems due to trauma: Traumatic injuries often take place during sports that involve running and jumping, particularly. When the knee is pulled or contorted beyond the capability of the ligaments that hold the joint together, tearing of these tissues can occur creating a sprain. Strains to muscles that facilitate movement of the knee can occur when the muscles are torn during injury. As with a sprain, a muscle strain can range from a minor injury that necessitates little treatment to a severe injury needing surgery. The knee also is comprised of two special “cartilages” – the menisci – between the tibia and the femur that provide for fluid motion and cushioning. These cartilages can also be torn during trauma, and often require surgical repair, or even removal if damaged severely.

Traumatic knee injuries can cause intense pain and swelling and need urgent evaluation and care. In the majority of cases a competent chiropractor, such as your San Jose Chiropractor, can take excellent care of these types of injuries, however there are some injuries that do need the craft of an orthopedic surgeon. Whatever the case, it is crucial to stabilize the injured joint as soon as possible and to put ice on the hurt area, if possible, until the injury can be assessed.

Conditions such as poor mechanics and problems due to overuse, as well as traumatic injuries, need to be corrected at an early stage. If not, the tissues of the knee joint, expressly the cartilage, will start to erode. In that event the bones will rub on one another, and changes such as bone spurs can take place. This painful affliction, known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis, commonly advances with age. Common treatment may involve medications such as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Nevertheless, there are natural anti-inflammatory supplements that are very effective such as rosemary, glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, bioflavinoids, curcumin. Conservative treatment, such as chiropractic, can be extremely valuable in relieving the pain. Your San Jose chiropractor is will be happy to recommend anti-inflammatory supplements. In addition, people can usually help themselves by keeping their weight down, doing exercises (especially in the pool), and wearing cushioned shoes or insoles.

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