Non-trauma knee problems: The most prevalent cause of non-traumatic pain is insufficient mechanics of the knee joint and the associated stress on the soft tissues of the knee. The patella or knee-cap is generally the area affected because often the patella does not move sufficiently on the femur during bending of the knee producing undue stress on the tendons, cartilage and ligaments. This distinct condition is frequently called chondromalacia patella (CMP) or Patella Femoral Syndrome (Knee Cap Pain). The dysfunction most often begins when there are imbalances in the quadriceps muscles of the thigh that join to and move the patella. Imbalances in the muscles related to knee movement often start from lower back dysfunction, expressly in the sacroiliac joint. Pain and dysfunction can also be generated 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.   Mechanical knee pain is also caused by gait deviations such as pronation.

The correspondent pain from overuse is most frequently experienced during activity, particularly stair climbing, running, jumping, and subsequent rising after prolonged sitting. Some women seem to be predisposed to painful overuse conditions for anatomical reasons, although such conditions are many times due to 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 certain cases, a brace is used to aid with the adjustment of the patella or to support the joint. Chiropractors, such as your San Jose chiropractor, are completely trained to render the correct diagnosis and management of these ailments.

Knee problems due to trauma: Traumatic injuries frequently happen during sports that involve running and jumping, such as football, basketball, and skiing. When the knee is extended or bent beyond the strength of the ligaments that hold the joint together, tearing of these tissues can happen producing a sprain. Strains to muscles that move the knee can arise when the muscles are torn during injury. As with a sprain, a muscle strain can range from a slight injury that needs little care to a extreme injury requiring surgery. The knee also has two special “cartilages” – the menisci – between the tibia and the femur that provide for fluid movement and cushioning. These cartilages can also be torn during trauma, and commonly necessitate surgical repair, or even removal if damaged severely.

Traumatic knee injuries can produce serious pain and swelling and need prompt diagnosis and care. In most instances a competent chiropractor, such as your San Jose Chiropractor, can manage these problems, although there are some injuries that do need the dexterity of an orthopedic surgeon. In any event, it is vital to stabilize the injured joint right away and to use ice on the injured area, if possible, until the injury can be examined.

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 begin to erode. If tissue and cartilage erode, the bones will rub together unprotected and changes such as bone spurs can take place. This painful affliction, known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis, commonly progresses with age. Common treatment may involve medications such as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). However, there are natural anti-inflammatory supplements that are highly effectual such as rosemary, glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, bioflavinoids, curcumin. Conservative treatment, such as chiropractic, can be extremely beneficial in relieving the pain. Your San Jose chiropractor is will gladly discuss anti-inflammatory supplements. In addition, sufferers can usually assist themselves by keeping their weight down, doing exercises (especially in the pool), and wearing cushioned shoes or insoles.

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