Knee Pain
The knee is a very complex structure of our body leading to a lot of pain after increase exercise or motions.
book appointmentThe knee is a very complex structure of our body leading to a lot of pain after increase exercise or motions. This is due to the fact that not every individual train their knees properly which can lead to problems even with everyday activities. As we age our knees become weak and/or tight over time, therefore, even simple activities as running or walking in the park can lead to discomfort and long term chronic knee issues. Certain parts of the knee is strain and other parts of the knee must over compensate leading to unbalance muscle groups in the knee. When this happen several treatment options and rehabilitation exercises are available. As a chiropractic clinic in Vancouver, True Health Studio sees many patients experiencing knee problems.
What Causes Knee Injuries?
First lets describe the basic anatomy of the knee. The knee is made up of 4 major bones: the femur, tibia, fibula, and the patella. There are four major ligaments the hold up the knee: medial collateral ligament, lateral collateral ligament, anterior cruciate ligament, and posterior cruciate ligament.
Several muscles surrounds the knee. The major ones consists of the quadriceps femoris, hamstrings, and calf muscles.
The anterior portion of the knee is made up of the quadriceps femoris muscle. This group of muscles comprise of 4 individual muscles consisting of the rectus femoris which is the middle portion of the thigh, the vastus medialis which is the inner portion of the thigh, vastus lateralis which is the outer portion of the thigh, and the vastus intermedius which is the portion underneath the rectus femoris.
The posterior thigh of the knee is made up of the hamstring muscle group. This group of muscles comprise of 4 individual muscles as well: biceps femoris long/short head, semitendonosis, and semimembranosus.
Lastly the calf muscles which forms the lower posterior portion of the knee consisting of mainly the gastrocnemius and the soleus.
Symptoms of Knee Pain
Majority of the patients who comes in with knee pain are usually the ones that have over used their knee. This will result in certain parts of the knee being too tight (usually the rectus femoris and vastus lateralis) and certain parts of the knee being too weak (vastus medialis). Muscle imbalance results and knee discomfort and pain are the symptoms. If this is the case chiropractic treatments made be done

How Chiropractors in Vancouver Treat Knee Pain
Our chiropractors will first perform an exam to determine the nature and severity of the knee injury. This includes evaluating a range of motion and muscle strength and conducting specific orthopedic tests. Chiropractic care primarily focuses on restoring proper motion and function to the knee joint through manipulative techniques and exercise rehabilitation.
Specific chiropractic adjustments are given to reduce muscle spasms, decrease pain signals, and improve biomechanics. Patients also receive soft tissue therapies such as myofascial release to eliminate knots and adhesions of the knee and its surrounding support muscles.
Rehab Exercises Are Key to Chiropractic Recovery
A personalized home exercise program is a significant part of any chiropractic treatment plan for knee injuries. Stretches and strengthening moves target the main knee muscles and surrounding areas. Examples squats and lunges and foam rolling of the supporting tight muscles.
More advanced exercises gradually improve strength, endurance, and functional abilities as the injury responds. Patients learn to identify and correct patterns of poor posture and biomechanics that may have also contributed to their condition. Once rehab is complete, this helps prevent future recurrences. Positive outcomes depend on dedication to the prescribed rehab routine.
When is Surgery Needed?
In some more serious cases the ligaments of the knee are partially torn or fully torn, in this case medical consultation or surgery are required. After re evaluation and/or surgery conservative care with chiropractic treatments can be rendered.
In the older population cartilage in the knee may deteriorate and decrease. When this happens surgery may be need, but conservative chiropractic care may be used at first as well. Proper supplementation of glucosamine sulfate may also be used.
Choose the Experts
Knee injuries are exceedingly common but can usually be managed successfully with chiropractic care and rehabilitation. True Health Studio’s experienced chiropractors are well-versed in evaluating, treating, and rehabbing these shoulder injuries through manual therapy and customized exercise plans. We welcome patients with knee pain to experience our practical, drug-free approach.