Knee problems can occur at any age, and it is often thought that those which appear after the age of 40 are due to wear and tear and that there is nothing that can be done. That is not necessarily the case.
Osteoarthritis or wear and tear is the reaction of a joint to mechanical stress and can leave a joint susceptible to irritation, inflammation and pain. As we get older this wear and tear becomes accumulative which is why these related problems are experienced later in life.
Common symptoms are:
- stiffness and aching knees in the morning or when getting up from a chair
- walking stairs especially downstairs or down hill
- standing for a long time
- sensitivity to weather changes.
Many wear and tear conditions become a problem secondary to muscle weakness or poor muscle co-ordination.
This is where professional advice can make a big difference. The knee operates through a delicate balance between many different muscle groups; it can be influenced by the hips and lower back above, and by the foot and ankle below.
Careful examination can identify any structure that is not functioning correctly and specific treatment and exercise can normally improve this. In turn this improvement will reduce adverse stress around the knee allowing any inflammation the chance to settle thus reducing pain.
Don’t be satisfied with “it is the old age” explanation. There is much you can do to allow you to continue enjoying nice hikes, walks or your favourite occupation without much pain.
At swissphysio our experienced physiotherapists are happy to advise you. Book a 15 minute FREE consultation at 0191 296 0567.