When should you see a physio about knee pain?

If your knee pain has not gone away after one week or the condition is getting worse from the initial onset, it is highly recommended that you see a physiotherapist for a thorough assessment and treatment to help you get back on track. It is generally a good idea to see a physiotherapist if you are experiencing knee pain that is persistent or severe, or if you notice any changes in the way your knee functions. A physiotherapist can help to assess the cause of your knee pain and develop a treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms.

Here are some specific reasons when you should see a physiotherapist for knee pain:

If you have a knee injury, such as a ligament or cartilage tear, a physiotherapist can help to manage your pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
If you have a chronic knee condition, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, a physiotherapist can help to manage your symptoms and improve your overall function.
If you have recently had knee surgery, a physiotherapist can help to guide your recovery and rehabilitation, and help you regain strength and mobility in your knee.
If you experience knee pain that is related to an underlying condition such as obesity, poor posture or overuse, a physiotherapist can help you to address the underlying cause of your knee pain and help you to manage your symptoms.
If you experience knee pain that is affecting your ability to perform daily activities, or if you are experiencing difficulty walking, running or climbing stairs, a physiotherapist can help to improve your overall function and quality of life.

It’s always recommended to see a physiotherapist as soon as possible after experiencing knee pain, especially if it is severe, persistent or affects your daily function. Early intervention can prevent the symptoms from becoming chronic and help to reduce the overall recovery time.

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Knee pain can have many different causes, but some of the most common include:

Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative condition that affects the cartilage that cushions the bones in the knee joint. It can cause pain and stiffness in the knee, as well as a loss of flexibility and mobility.
Rheumatoid arthritis: This is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the knee joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and a loss of function.
Meniscus tears: The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that helps to cushion the knee joint. A tear in this cartilage can cause pain, swelling, and a loss of mobility.
Ligament injuries: The knee has four ligaments that connect the thigh bone to the shin bone. These ligaments can become stretched or torn, leading to pain, swelling, and a loss of stability in the knee.
Tendonitis: Tendons are the strong cords that connect muscle to bone. Inflammation of the tendons that attach to the knee can cause pain and stiffness.
Bursitis: Bursa are small fluid-filled sacs that help to cushion the knee joint. Inflammation of these sacs can cause pain and swelling.
Gout: This is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. It can cause sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness in the knee.
Overuse injuries: Repetitive strain on the knee from activities such as running, cycling, or jumping can cause pain and inflammation.
Obesity, poor posture, or muscle imbalances can also put extra stress on the knee and lead to pain.

It’s important to note that knee pain can also be caused by underlying medical conditions or injuries and that’s why it’s always recommended to see a healthcare professional to determine the cause of the knee pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan.