Which Knee Pain Issues Do Physiotherapists See Most?
Your knees work harder than you might realize, whether you’re climbing stairs, getting out of a chair, or simply going for a walk. These crucial joints endure significant stress daily—up to one and a half times your body weight with each step. Many individuals experience knee pain for various reasons. At Urban Motion, an integrated physical therapy clinic in Hong Kong, we specialize in treating knee pain. Understanding the causes behind this discomfort is essential for effective treatment.
Understanding the Knee Joint
The knee is vulnerable due to its complex structure. It allows for twisting and rotation and comprises three bones: the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). This intricate design, supported by cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and muscles, makes the knee susceptible to both traumatic injuries and gradual wear-and-tear conditions.
Most Common Causes of Knee Pain
Here are some of the primary conditions that can lead to knee pain:
- Ligament Injuries (ACL & PCL)
Sudden stops, twists, or collisions during sports or accidents often result in injuries to the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) or PCL (posterior cruciate ligament). Damage to these ligaments causes instability, swelling, and pain. - Meniscus Tears
Menisci are shock-absorbing cartilage structures between the femur and tibia. Tears can occur due to sports injuries or, in older adults, from years of use, leading to joint stiffness, clicking, or a “locking” sensation in the knee. - Collateral Ligament Sprains
The medial and lateral collateral ligaments control sideways motion. A direct blow or awkward movement can overstretch or tear these ligaments, causing pain and difficulty with lateral movements. - Patellar Tendonitis (“Jumper’s Knee”)
Often seen in individuals who jump or run frequently, this condition causes irritation and inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shin bone, resulting in pain at the front of the knee. - Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
Common in runners and active individuals, this condition arises from muscle imbalances or poor kneecap tracking, causing dull pain around the kneecap, especially during stairs or prolonged sitting. - Knee Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursae—small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction—can lead to pain, swelling, and tenderness around the kneecap, often due to overuse or trauma. - Degenerative Changes (Osteoarthritis)
As we age, the cartilage protecting knee bones can wear away, leading to stiffness, grinding, and discomfort, particularly in the morning or after sitting. Early signs can also appear in younger individuals with a history of knee injuries.
What to Expect from Physiotherapy Treatment
At Urban Motion, we start with a detailed assessment to understand your unique movement patterns, lifestyle, and injury history. From there, we develop a personalized treatment plan that may include strength training, manual therapy, and movement education. As a trusted provider of physiotherapy in Hong Kong, we use modern techniques with individualized care to help you recover faster and move better.
Knee pain can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to become a long-term issue. Understanding the reasons behind your knee pain is crucial for a full recovery. If you’re experiencing any signs of strain or discomfort, don’t wait for things to worsen—reach out to our team at Urban Motion today.