By: Adam Renelt, DC
Updated 4/2/2024
Knee pain is very common lower body complaint. Sometimes our patients in Sioux Falls are surprised to learn that chiropractors work with the knee joint. Our chiropractors are trained to evaluate almost all joints in the body, including the spine and the extremities. In fact, we have some patients that come in for appointments with knee pain being their main symptom. Knee pain can range from a minor nuisance to severe pain that makes it difficult to move at all. Sometimes knee pain is coming from the joint itself and sometimes knee pain can be referred from another part of the body such as the back, hip or ankle. In many cases of knee pain, chiropractic care can help to relieve the symptoms and to improve the joint function.
Anatomy and Function of the Knee
The knee joint is made of up the thigh bone (femur), the shin bone (tibia), and the kneecap (patella). The joint is created where these bones meet and allow the leg to bend for movement. In addition to the bones of the knee there are also muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage that play important roles in the function of the knee. These tissues allow the knee to bend and to help the human body to be able to walk, run squat, jump and to perform many other movements. This complex system works together, and dysfunction may result if any of these tissues are damaged.
Causes of Knee Pain
Injuries to the knee can occur over time with repetitive movements or they can occur due to trauma. Common conditions that can result from wear and tear include arthritis and tendinitis. Trauma to the knee may result in broken bones, torn ligaments, damaged cartilage, meniscus damage or torn tendons. Also, conditions such as iliotibial band syndrome or certain back problems may refer pain to the knee even though the actual problem doesn’t originate in the knee. If a person has a problem with either a high or low arch in their foot, it may also affect the knee and cause symptoms. When someone is having knee pain, a case history is very important to help decide what the cause of the knee pain may be. After a case history is taken, an exam to check the ligament stability and joint integrity is usually performed to help decide what tissues are affected. Imaging such as x-rays or an MRI may be used to check for broken bones or damaged ligaments.
Chiropractic Care and Knee Pain
When a patient presents to our office with knee pain, we will discuss the case history and perform an examination. In addition to evaluating the knee, chiropractors may also check the lower back, the hip, and the ankle to see if any of those areas have dysfunction that could affect the knee. If misalignment, or subluxation, is found in any of those joints, a chiropractic adjustment may be performed. Depending on the situation we may also recommended strengthening and/or stretching exercises. If we don’t think that chiropractic care is the best option for your case, we may recommend a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon for further evaluation. If you are suffering from knee pain, please contact our office today and schedule an appointment with one of our Sioux Falls chiropractors.