Each knee has an inner and outer meniscus that help improve mechanical stability. The knee also relies on the surrounding muscles and normal movement at the hip, ankle, and foot to absorb shock. When weakness, limited flexibility, or overuse disrupts that system, extra force can contribute to swelling, pain, stiffness, and a cycle of reduced muscle activation.
Restoring strength around the knee helps muscles do their job as shock absorbers and can decrease stress on the joint.
Improving flexibility in the knee and nearby joints helps the hip, ankle, and foot share load more effectively.
Hip and back problems can cause pain felt at the knee. A thorough evaluation considers other possible contributors to your symptoms.
Performance Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine notes that physical therapy without surgery was as effective as surgery followed by therapy for degenerative meniscus tears in people age 45 and older in a 2013 study. Therapy does not restore a torn meniscus or normal joint surfaces; it works by improving muscle strength and flexibility so the body can better control force through the knee. Starting with a careful physical therapy evaluation may help you avoid unnecessary testing, treatment time, and expense.
Our physical therapists are specialty trained in orthopedics, sports medicine, manual therapy, and more. We serve patients from offices in Colchester and Hebron, and most insurance companies cover self-referral to physical therapy. Before your first visit, our staff can check benefits and explain any special referral requirements.