
11/08/2025
Role of physiotherapy in treating knee pain:
1. Understanding Knee Pain
Knee pain can result from various causes such as:
Injuries (ligament tears, meniscus injury)
Overuse (sports, running, repetitive strain)
Degenerative changes (osteoarthritis)
Post-surgical recovery (knee replacement, ligament repair)
Muscle imbalance or weakness
Physiotherapy focuses on identifying the root cause, relieving pain, restoring movement, and preventing recurrence.
2. Goals of Physiotherapy in Knee Pain
Pain relief without excessive reliance on medication
Restoration of mobility and range of motion
Strengthening of supporting muscles
Improvement of balance and stability
Preventing further injury
3. Physiotherapy Approaches
A. Pain Management Techniques
Ice/Heat therapy – reduces swelling or stiffness
Ultrasound therapy – promotes tissue healing
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) – blocks pain signals
Manual therapy – gentle mobilizations to improve joint movement
B. Therapeutic Exercises
Range of motion (ROM) exercises – to reduce stiffness
Strength training – quadriceps, hamstrings, calf muscles
Stretching – to improve flexibility and reduce tightness
Functional training – walking, stair climbing, squatting practice
C. Posture & Gait Correction
Correcting how you walk or stand to reduce knee stress
D. Education & Lifestyle Advice
Activity modification (avoiding high-impact strain)
Proper footwear selection
Ergonomic adjustments in daily life
4. Benefits of Physiotherapy for Knee Pain
Avoids or delays surgery in some cases
Improves joint function and muscle balance
Reduces dependency on painkillers
Speeds up recovery after surgery or injury
Enhances long-term joint health
5. When to Seek Physiotherapy
Persistent knee pain lasting more than a few days
Swelling, stiffness, or difficulty bending/straightening the knee
Pain after injury, sports, or heavy work
Post-surgical rehabilitation needs.