Lower limb
Knee pain
Runner’s knee, ligament sprains, arthritis and recovery after knee surgery.
Overview
Knee pain can come from the kneecap, the ligaments, the cartilage or the muscles that support the knee. Runners, people who kneel for work and people with arthritis are especially likely to have it.
Strengthening the hip and thigh muscles is often the key to lasting improvement, whatever the cause.
Symptoms
Pain around or behind the kneecap, especially on stairs or when squatting
Swelling after activity
A feeling that the knee might give way
Stiffness after sitting for a long time
How we treat it
We look at how you walk, squat and step down, test the ligaments and check your hip and ankle, which often affect the knee.
Your plan usually combines strengthening, balance training and a gradual return to running, sport or work. If you had surgery, we follow your surgeon’s protocol and keep them informed.
Typical recovery time
Usually 6 to 12 weeks; after ligament surgery, 6 to 9 months