In many case, chiropractic treatment can be very beneficial for those suffering with knee pain. According to chiropractors, patients seen in their offices often have problems with one or both knees. The underlying cause of this type of pain can often be cured by adjustments or manipulations given by a chiropractor. However, when the cause of knee pain is osteoarthritis, it is not curable. The associated symptoms can be somewhat eliminated. The progression of the causative disease can also be reduced with treatment. Treating knee pain is more successful if started with the initial onset. Individuals should look into chiropractic care for knee pain when:
Pain in the knee is interfering with activities of daily living.
Pain killers and adequate rest have yielded no positive improvement.
Been diagnosed with arthritis and told that nothing else can be done to help the condition.
Thorough Examination
Other anatomical structures can greatly influence the perception of pain. Often, pain is perceived to be in the knee when it is actually coming from another source. For this reason, a chiropractor will thoroughly examine the lower back, hips, pelvis, ankles, and feet before diagnosing and treating. In some cases, joints in other limbs of the body may not be working properly. This can allow for added stress on the knee joint. Over time, the added stress may result in injury. For this reason, knee pain may be resolved by treating other areas. This will also maximize the chances of long term improvement. An accurate diagnosis is necessary for treatment to be beneficial. To obtain a diagnosis, it is important that the chiropractor receives detailed and accurate information from the patient such as medical history.
Healing Treatment
Treatment by a chiropractor is individualized and modified to fit each patient’s needs and other conditions. The treatment that may work for one person may not be beneficial for another. The goals of chiropractic care are basically the same and are as follows:
To reduce inflammation of the joint and alleviate pain.
Recreate normal functioning of the joint.
Promote rehabilitation with exercise regimen.
Enhance long term improvement.
Brief on Joint Inflammation
Joints that are inflamed are not only swollen and painful but often red and hot to the touch. Many factors aggravate the inflammation. Individuals should avoid activities that cause a worsening of symptoms. Elevation and OTC anti-inflammatory medications often aid in the reduction of swelling. Anti-inflammatory medicines can alleviate much of the pain as well. During chiropractic care, exercises will be introduced. As with all exercise programs, the patient will be started on a low impact program and gradually increased as tolerated. These will improve strength and stability. Properly delivered exercise also builds the endurance level of the joint. Following a daily regimen of exercise promotes the healing process and enables the patient to return to their activities of daily living more quickly. The regimen should be continued even after inflammation of the joint has subsided. A qualified chiropractor can recommend the best course of treatment for your knee pain.
