Non-trauma knee problems: Insufficient mechanics of the knee joint and the associated stress on the soft tissues of the knee are, by far, the most common cause of non-traumatic pain. Generally, the part of the knee implicated is the patella or knee-cap. Often the patella does not move smoothly or does not move efficiently on the femur during bending of the knee generating undue stress on the tendons, cartilage and ligaments. This distinct condition is frequently called chondromalacia patella (CMP) or Patella Femoral Syndrome (Knee Cap Pain). The dysfunction usually starts when there are imbalances in the quadriceps muscles of the thigh that join to and move the patella. Imbalances in the muscles having to do with knee movement commonly originate from lower back ailments, particularly in the sacroiliac joint. Pain and dysfunction can also be caused by imbalances in the muscle groups that connect to the knee. For example, pain on the medial or inside of the knee occurs when the muscles on the insides of the thigh are strained and rigid. Mechanical knee pain is also created by gait abnormalities such as pronation.

Evidence of overuse includes pain during activities such as climbing stairs, running, jumping, as well as pain upon rising after prolonged sitting. A number of women seem to be predisposed to painful overuse problems for anatomical reasons, but such conditions are many times due to wearing high heels on a regular basis.

It is important to re-establish proper muscle balance, restore appropriate motion to the patella and other knee joints, and to correct any subluxations of the sacroiliac joints and bones of the foot. In specific cases, a brace is used to help with the alignment of the patella or to secure the joint. Chiropractors, such as your Ventura chiropractor, are highly experienced in rendering knowledgeable assessment and treatment of these conditions.

Knee problems due to trauma: Traumatic injuries often occur during activities that involve running and jumping, such as football, basketball, and skiing. Sprains happen when tissue is torn by virtue of the knee being stretched or bent beyond the strength of the ligaments that hold the joint together. Strains to muscles that give motion to the knee can occur when the muscles are torn during injury. As with a sprain, a muscle strain can range from a slight injury that necessitates little care to a severe injury necessitating surgery. Furthermore the two special knee “cartilages” located between the tibia and femur (called the menisci), which facilitate frictionless movement and cushioning, may also be torn during traumatic injury. This serious injury often needs surgical repair, or even removal if damaged severely.

Traumatic knee injuries can produce severe pain and swelling and require immediate evaluation and care. In most instances an experienced chiropractor, such as your Ventura Chiropractor, can treat these problems, although there are some injuries that do need the dexterity of an orthopedic surgeon. Whatever the case, it is crucial to stabilize the injured joint as soon as possible and to use ice on the injured area, if possible, until the injury can be assessed.

If poor mechanics, overuse problems, or traumatic injuries are not corrected at an early stage, the tissues of the knee joint, expressly the cartilage, will begin to wear out eventually. If tissue and cartilage wear away, the bones will rub together unprotected and changes such as bone spurs can occur. This painful problem, known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis, is frequently progressive with age. Usual treatment may involve medications such as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). However, there are natural anti-inflammatory supplements that are highly effectual such as rosemary, glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, bioflavinoids, curcumin. Conservative treatment, such as chiropractic, can be extremely valuable in relieving the pain. Your Ventura chiropractor is very knowledgeable about anti-inflammatory supplements. In addition, people can usually help themselves by keeping their weight down, doing exercises (especially in the pool), and wearing cushioned shoes or insoles.

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