Physical therapy is essential to the treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention of many of the conditions that affect the knee joint and its surrounding supporting structures.

A Spine and Sports Medicine of HoHoKus physical therapist will always start by asking you questions designed to help figure out the scope of the problem, everything from your lifestyle to medical history. If your knee pain was caused by major trauma or disease, your physical therapist will consult with your doctor.

Our next step is to create a treatment plan to help relieve your knee pain. In addition to giving you exercises to improve your flexibility, strength, and stability, other options include:

• Application of ice or heat
• Electrical stimulation of muscle groups
• Ultrasound
• Massage therapy

Most physical therapy sessions last about an hour, although the time can vary. The total number of sessions will depend on the particular circumstances of your knee pain. Some patients need only a few sessions, while others may require months of therapy.

Depending on the source of your knee pain, you may need a supportive aid, such as crutches, until you are able to walk on your own. It’s imperative that you learn how to use these devices properly during physical therapy, or you could risk another injury. Your physical therapist may have you use a cane and will advise you about which size to get and which hand you should use – a cane typically goes on the opposite side from your injury or knee pain. If you have a swollen knee, you may need to wear a brace to provide support and compression.

Following the right physical therapy should not only enable you to feel better faster, but also stay pain-free following your recovery. Call Spine and Sports Medicine of HoHoKus if you experience any of the following conditions:

• Meniscis Tear
• ACL / PCL Tear
• MCL / LCL Sprain / Strain
• Patello-Femoral Pain Syndrome
• Patella Tendonitis
• Bursitis / Tendonitis
• Iliotibial Band Syndrome
• Chondromalacia Patella
• Arthritis