Chiropractor explains how Posture Can Correct Knee Pain
Knee pain and disability is widespread, second only to spinal problems within the musculoskeletal system. dysfunction of the knee can be separated into several classes including unsatisfactory of the knee and faulty foot mechanics due to foot pain, general overuse of the knee joint, dysfunction due to arthritic changes in the joint, and traumatic injury from events such as sports and falls.
Non-trauma knee problems: The most prevailing 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 the most common area affected because many times the patella does not move properly on the femur during bending of the knee causing undue stress on the tendons, cartilage and ligaments. This distinct condition is frequently called chondromalacia patella (CMP) or Patella Femoral Syndrome (Knee Cap Pain). This dysfunction is due to imbalances in the quadriceps muscles of the thigh that connect to and move the patella. Imbalances in the muscles having to do with knee movement frequently originate from lower back dysfunction, particularly in the sacroiliac joint. Imbalances in muscle groups that join to the knee can also lead to pain and dysfunction. For example, the muscles on the inside of the thigh, when strained and tight, can cause pain on the medial or inside of the knee. Faulty foot mechanics that produce gait deviations such as pronation, are another cause of mechanical knee pain.
The associated pain from overuse is most frequently experienced during activity, in particular stair climbing, running, jumping, and following getting up from prolonged sitting. Some women appear to be predisposed to painful overuse conditions for anatomical reasons, however such ailments are frequently related to wearing high heels on a regular basis.
The main treatment for mechanical or overuse injuries to the knee is to re-establish proper balance of the muscles, restore proper movement to the patella and other joints of the knee, and to correct any subluxations of the sacroiliac joints and bones of the foot. In certain cases, a brace is required to assist with the adjustment of the patella or to secure the joint. Chiropractors, such as your chiropractor, are ideally trained to render knowledgeable assessment and care of these problems.
Knee problems due to trauma: Traumatic injuries commonly take place during sports that involve running and jumping, especially. Sprains take place when tissue is torn by virtue of the knee being stretched or contorted beyond the facility of the ligaments that hold the joint together. Strains to muscles that give motion to the knee can take place when the muscles are torn during injury. As with a sprain, a muscle strain can vary from a slight injury that requires little attention to a extreme injury needing surgery. The knee also is comprised of two special “cartilages” – the menisci – between the tibia and the femur that facilitate frictionless mobility and cushioning. These cartilages can also be torn during trauma, and commonly need surgical repair, or even removal if damaged severely.
Traumatic knee injuries can create intense pain and swelling and necessitate prompt diagnosis and treatment. In most instances a qualified chiropractor, such as your Chiropractor, can treat these types of injuries, although there are some injuries that may necessitate the skills of an orthopedic surgeon. In any event, it is crucial to stabilize the injured joint right away and to use ice on the injured area, if possible, until the injury can be assessed.
If poor mechanics, overuse problems, or traumatic injuries are not eliminated at an early stage, the tissues of the knee joint, particularly the cartilage, will begin to wear out over the course of time. If tissue and cartilage deteriorate, the bones will rub together unprotected and changes such as bone spurs can eventuate. This painful affliction, known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis, commonly progresses with age. Usual treatment may involve medications such as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Nevertheless, 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 beneficial in relieving the pain. Your San Jose chiropractor is will gladly discuss anti-inflammatory supplements. In addition, individuals can often help themselves by keeping their weight down, doing exercises (especially in the pool), and wearing cushioned shoes or insoles.
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