Knee Pain
Knee pain is a common ailment that affects a large portion of the population at some point in their lives. Our knees bear the brunt of daily activities such as walking, bending, lifting, and even playing, making them susceptible to discomfort and injury. Whether you’re an athlete, someone with a physically demanding job, or simply engaging in everyday tasks, the impact on your knees can lead to significant pain and mobility issues.
WebMD, a leading source for medical and health information, highlights the complexity of knee pain, stating: “Knee pain can be caused by injuries, mechanical problems, types of arthritis, and other problems. Injuries to the ligament, such as an ACL injury, tears to the menisci (the cartilage between the knee bones), and bursitis can cause significant pain and lead to chronic knee issues if not properly treated.”
At Hickory Grove Chiropractic, we understand the intricate nature of knee pain and the various factors that can contribute to it, such as issues with the patella (kneecap), meniscus (knee joint), ligaments, tendons, and surrounding muscles. For example, a quadriceps strain can make bending the knee painful and difficult, affecting your ability to perform daily activities.
A critical aspect of diagnosing and treating knee pain involves analyzing the knee’s tracking, or how the joint moves during activities like walking or running. An improper tracking pattern can lead to conditions such as Runner’s Knee, where the constant stress and impact of running inflame and wear down the knee joint cartilage, resulting in pain, swelling, and dysfunction. Over time, without treatment, these issues can progress to arthritis.
To assess knee tracking at Hickory Grove Chiropractic, we observe patients’ gait and may measure the Q-Angle—a metric that helps us understand the stress exerted on the knee joint based on the alignment of the hip, knee, and ankle. This measurement helps in identifying misalignments that could be contributing to your pain.
Our treatment approach for knee pain includes joint manipulation, stretching, and strengthening exercises for the muscles that support the knee. We also advise on proper footwear to provide adequate arch support, cushioning, and to reduce hyperpronation, thereby improving knee conditions.
If you’re experiencing knee pain and seeking relief, Hickory Grove Chiropractic is here to help. Our team is committed to diagnosing the root cause of your discomfort and developing a personalized treatment plan to get you back to walking comfortably and engaging in your favorite activities without pain.