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Experiencing persistent pain behind your knee can be frustrating, especially when it impacts activities like running. Understanding the possible causes and how physical therapy can help is key to recovery. Below, we address a common question about deep knee pain and explore how physical therapy might provide relief.
Understanding deep knee pain
Without a physical examination, it’s challenging to pinpoint the exact cause of your pain. However, based on your description, here’s what we know:
- The source of deep joint pain:
- Likely involves the knee capsule, which surrounds the knee joint and is intricately connected to structures such as the meniscus, ligaments, and bony structures.
- Inflammation is a primary contributor to pain and can persist if the underlying activity continues. This is detrimental to the health and healing of the tissue/joint.
- Bone marrow edema:
- Fluid buildup inside the knee that can cause pain and swelling/tightness in the area.
- The complex anatomy of the knee, combined with how your nervous system interprets pain signals, is likely the reason your pain is felt behind the knee when the edema is in the front.
How physical therapy can help combat knee pain
Although an MRI is often used in diagnosing injuries, we can’t rule out minor problems based on your results, nor the root of the problem. As a musculoskeletal expert, a physical therapist can provide a tailored approach to address your symptoms and underlying issues, including:
- Comprehensive evaluation
- A detailed movement screen and physical exam to pinpoint the cause of pain.
- Identification of factors like muscle imbalances, gait abnormalities, or structural issues.
- Targeted treatment plan
- Manual therapy to reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
- Range of motion exercises to promote healing and prevent stiffness.
- Guidance on avoiding activities that worsen inflammation.
- Education and prevention
- Insight into the anatomy of your knee and how to protect it during recovery.
- Strategies to prevent future injuries and manage symptoms effectively.
Action steps for knee pain relief
To start your recovery journey, here’s what you can do:
- Use ice to manage inflammation and reduce pain.
- Rest and modify activities to avoid worsening the condition.
- Schedule an appointment with a physical therapist to receive a personalized treatment plan.
Persistent knee pain can be discouraging, but physical therapy offers a pathway to recovery. A trained physical therapist can help you regain mobility, alleviate pain, and get back to running or other activities you enjoy. Don’t hesitate to seek help — early intervention can make a significant difference in your healing process.
Got knee pain? Try PT!
As physical therapists, we know the importance of movement for overall health and well-being. From injury recovery to achieving optimal performance, our passion is to help every patient reach their goals and live an active, pain-free life.
