In addition to spinal complaints, knee pain and disability is one of the most widespread dysfunctions of the musculoskeletal system. Problems with the knee can be classified into several classes including poor mechanics of the knee and reduced foot mechanics due to foot pain, frequent overuse of the knee joint,  problems due to arthritic changes in the joint, and traumatic injury from events such as sports and falls.

Non-trauma knee problems: Insufficient mechanics of the knee joint and the corresponding stress on the soft tissues of the knee are, by far, the most widespread cause of non-traumatic pain. Normally, the part of the knee implicated is the patella or knee-cap. Frequently the patella does not move fluidly or does not move efficiently on the femur during bending of the knee producing too much stress on the tendons, cartilage and ligaments. This specific condition is frequently called chondromalacia patella (CMP) or Patella Femoral Syndrome (Knee Cap Pain). The dysfunction usually originates when there are imbalances in the quadriceps muscles of the thigh that connect to and move the patella. Imbalances in the muscles associated with knee movement frequently originate from lower back problems, expressly in the sacroiliac joint. Imbalances in muscle groups that connect to the knee can also lead to pain and dysfunction. For example, pain on the medial or inside of the knee occurs when the muscles on the insides of the thigh are stretched and tight.   Mechanical knee pain is also created by gait deviations such as pronation.

Symptoms of overuse include pain during activities such as climbing stairs, running, jumping, as well as pain upon rising after prolonged sitting. A number of women appear to be predisposed to painful overuse ailments for anatomical reasons, however such problems are often related 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 adopted to help with the positioning of the patella or to secure the joint. Chiropractors, such as your San Jose chiropractor, are fully trained to provide knowledgeable analysis and management of these conditions.

Knee problems due to trauma: Traumatic injuries frequently happen during physical exertion that involves running and jumping, especially. When the knee is pulled or contorted beyond the capability of the ligaments that hold the joint together, tearing of these tissues can take place causing a sprain. The muscles that move the knee can also be torn during injury producing a strain or pull of the muscle. As with a sprain, a muscle strain can range from a slight injury that necessitates little care to a extreme injury requiring surgery. In addition the two special knee “cartilages” located between the tibia and femur (called the menisci), which allow for fluid movement and cushioning, may also be torn during traumatic injury. This serious injury commonly requires surgical repair, or even removal if damaged severely.

Traumatic knee injuries can produce intense pain and swelling and need prompt examination and attention. In most instances a qualified chiropractor, such as your San Jose Chiropractor, can manage these types of injuries, but there are some injuries that require the skills of an orthopedic surgeon. In any event, it is crucial to stabilize the injured joint as soon as possible and to use ice on the damaged area, if possible, until the injury can be examined.

If poor mechanics, overuse problems, or traumatic injuries are not eliminated at an early stage, the tissues of the knee joint, expressly the cartilage, will begin to wear out sooner or later. Consequently the bones will rub on one another, and changes such as bone spurs can occur. This painful affliction, known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis, often progresses with age. Common treatment may involve medications such as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Fortunately, there are natural anti-inflammatory supplements that produce excellent results such as rosemary, glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, bioflavinoids, curcumin. Conservative treatment, such as chiropractic, can be extremely valuable in reducing the pain. Your San Jose chiropractor is will gladly discuss anti-inflammatory supplements. In addition, individuals can frequently help themselves by keeping their weight down, doing exercises (especially in the pool), and wearing cushioned shoes or insoles.