Physiotherapy for knee pain
As mentioned above, the treatment of knee pain depends on the affected structure. In the case of affected ligament or discourse structure, treatment is carried out according to the existing symptoms after consultation with the doctor. In the case of swelling in the area of the knee, lymph drainage and careful mobilization can be used to stimulate repair.
Pain in the area of the collateral ligaments, saussures and reticulum is treated with transverse friction (apply finger transversely to the tendon and pull transversely). This sets a new inflammatory stimulus and the blood circulation and wound healing is stimulated anew. An ice lolly can be used as a support to relieve the pain.
Passive mobilizations and gliding and traction techniques from manual therapy can be used to generally improve mobility in the knee. The joint partners are moved apart by a pull and the metabolism in the joint surface area is stimulated. In physiotherapy, the exercises described under Therapy of a fatigue fracture are also used.
The patella is also mobilized in all possible directions of movement. If adhesions appear in the area of the recessus, these can be loosened by certain techniques. In the further course of therapy for knee pain, the stability of the knee is improved.
As mentioned above, balance and coordination exercises on uneven surfaces are particularly suitable for this. These can be extensively increased and modified. It is important that no pain occurs when the exercises are increased.
For muscular problems with knee pain, the therapist uses classical massage techniques. In addition, loosening the trigger points by prolonged pressing and releasing the fasciae helps to improve the physiology of the muscle. If there is a length problem of the muscle, the therapist guides the patient to the above mentioned stretching position.
In the same way, the muscle can be stretched gently by post-isometric relaxation and by using the tension. The therapist sets a pain-free position of the joint shortly before the end of the movement. He asks the patient to press against his resistance against the desired stretch.
Not too much force should be built up.The tension is maintained until the affected muscle is clearly tired, then the patient relaxes completely and the therapist pushes the limb further into movement. This process is repeated several times. Through this treatment, the joint is gently brought into wide stretching.
In case of muscle weakness, a precise build-up program is worked out, which includes the above-mentioned muscles. Exercises such as knee bends, lunges, leg extension, leg curl, leg press are the most important exercises. A stabilizing tape around the knee can be used to support the physiotherapy.
The Blackroll is used for an independent fascial solution. The rolls are designed in such a way that the fascia can be optimally loosened during the exercise on the roll. Using the example of the back thigh muscles, one leg is placed on the roll, the other leg serves as a supporting leg and is positioned at an angle.
The hands rest behind the body and the arms and leg are rolled back and forth over the roll. This principle is carried out in the same way for all other muscles, varying only in the starting position. In connection with the loosening of the fascia, a holistic strength training is performed.
Exercises with the Blackroll are not recommended for people who have certain limitations of the musculoskeletal system. More information about the Blackroll and related exercises can be found on the pages Fascia Training and Fascia Roll. In order to correct possible misalignments of the kneecap, to relieve inflammation or irritation, in many cases a kinesiotape is additionally applied to the knee joint. Menisci, tendons and ligaments are supported by the effects of the tape. You will find detailed instructions in the article Kinesiotape.
