Dr. Terrell Joseph, board-certified orthopaedic surgeon at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery in Vail, Aspen, Frisco, and Denver, CO, is recognized as a trusted expert by patients seeking comprehensive knee care. He undertook his fellowship in arthroscopic knee surgery and has broad expertise in non-surgical and surgical care of the knee joint. Knee pain can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, hindering mobility and limiting daily activities. While knee surgery is a common approach to addressing certain conditions, there are alternative options. Dr. Joseph often recommends knee surgery alternatives, frequently including knee physical therapy, in treating knee pain.
Causes of Knee Pain
Knee pain can arise from various factors, including injury, overuse, age-related degeneration, and underlying medical conditions. Common causes of knee pain include:
Osteoarthritis - This degenerative joint disease occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the knee joint wears down over time.
Ligament Tears - Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), or other ligaments can lead to knee pain and instability.
Meniscus Tears - The menisci are C-shaped pieces of cartilage that act as shock absorbers in the knee. Tears in the meniscus can cause pain, swelling, and limit range of motion.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome - This condition involves pain in the front of the knee and is often caused by imbalance in the muscles around the knee joint.
Common Symptoms of Knee Pain
Individuals experiencing knee pain may exhibit various symptoms, which can help identify the underlying problem. Common symptoms associated with knee pain:
Swelling, a swollen knee indicates inflammation or fluid accumulation within the joint.
Stiffness, knee joint stiffness makes it difficult to fully extend or flex the leg.
Instability, a sensation of the knee giving way or feeling unstable, particularly during weight-bearing activities.
Pain, persistent or intermittent, ranging mild to severe, located in the front, back or sides of the knee joint.
Benefits of Physical Therapy For Knee Pain
In many cases, knee pain can be effectively managed without surgery. Knee physical therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that focuses on rehabilitating the knee through targeted exercises and therapies. Dr. Joseph recommends knee physical therapy for promoting healing and restoring function. The key benefits of knee physical therapy include:
Pain Management - reduces pain through various techniques, including manual therapy, joint mobilization, and therapeutic exercises.
Strengthening and Stability - strengthening muscles around the knee joint improves stability, reducing the risk of further injury.
Increased Range of Motion - stretching and flexibility exercises enhance the knee range of motion of the knee, facilitating normal movement.
Functional Rehabilitation - customized treatment plans address specific functional goals, ie., walking, climbing stairs, or returning to sports activities.
Dr. Joseph, renowned for his expertise in knee care, recognizes the importance of knee physical therapy as a valuable alternative to surgery. Along with other non-surgical treatments for knee pain, such as knee injection therapies and nutrition and fitness protocols, it is knee physical therapy that has the highest potential for long-term non-surgical results for patients. With Dr. Joseph's commitment to empowering patients, he can be trusted to provide the highest level of care, ensuring the best possible outcomes for individuals seeking knee surgery alternatives.
Dr. Joseph’s personalized approach to care is a top reason patients seek his expertise for non-surgical treatment options for knee pain. Request a consultation with Dr. Joseph today.
Call (970) 476-7220 today to make an appointment or submit a request using their online form.