Knee injuries are one of the most common types of injuries, and they can be incredibly painful. A knee injury could also physically limit you for days, weeks, or even months. However, most knee injuries can be treated and even healed with the proper treatment. Here are the most common types of knee injuries and how they can be treated with physical therapy.
ACL Injuries
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four major ligaments in the knee and provides stability to the joint. ACL injuries are often caused by sudden twisting or hyperextension of the knee and can result in significant pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Physical therapy is often used to treat ACL injuries, especially with athletes who want to return to their sport. Treatment may include a combination of exercises to improve strength and range of motion and ice/heat therapy to reduce pain and inflammation.
Meniscus Tears
The meniscus is a small piece of cartilage that sits between the femur and tibia bones in the knee. Tears to the meniscus are common and often happen in high-impact sports like basketball or football. Physical therapy is very effective for meniscus tears, particularly for minor tears that don’t require surgery.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common knee injury caused by the cartilage’s irritation behind the kneecap. This type of knee injury is common in runners and bicyclists. Physical therapy helps PFPS injuries by improving strength and flexibility in the knee and managing pain.
If you’ve experienced a knee injury, call Activity First. Our experienced physical therapists can help you develop a personalized treatment plan to manage your pain and regain strength and mobility in your knee. Contact us today to schedule an appointment so you can focus on recovery.