Joints spread across the body make many human movements happen and none may be more important than the knees. These lower body hinges allow walking, running, jumping, lifting, and many more activities to take place with ease but their constant use also leads to the potential for injury and wear. While there are plenty of orthopedic needs surrounding this major joint, its ligaments, and other components, the typical physical therapy treatments associated with a knee commonly depends on how the injury occurred. For example, individuals who participate in sports may be more subject to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries versus having to undergo a full knee replacement - which is typically reserved for people as they age.

Knee pain is something which impacts people young and old, but targeting specific causes for these issues helps individuals find relief. Being able to understand the problem allows medical professionals an opportunity to focus on the needs in order for a return to function prior to any pain. This often includes the use of physical therapy as there are plenty of different knee issues which can be served by using a focused approach. As with any physical therapy program, the needs will be specifically designed for each individual depending on their particular injury.

ACL Injuries

Athletes are more susceptible to ACL injuries due to the nature of their occurrence. Caused by sudden stops, directional changes, or outside collisions, these injuries typically require surgery for repair and a physical therapy regimen to return full functionality.

Meniscus Tear(s)

The meniscus is made up of cartilage in the knee and helps absorb impacts from constant bending and maneuvering during all activities. These components have a tendency to suffer tears when bearing weight and twisting, which is prone to any age individual in a variety of different situations. While repair without surgery is possible, depending on the tear’s location, these injuries do usually require medical attention more often than not in addition to physical therapy.

Knee Replacement

Another common orthopedic knee injury and treatment involves undergoing a knee replacement. Depending on the amount of damage which has transpired, this may be a partial or complete replacement. For many, this action comes when a joint is considerably worn out after constant use over time. Most individuals who undergo the knife for knee reconstruction are over the age of 60, making physical therapy an even more important part of the process. Learning to walk and function with a new joint in such a critical area is difficult, but a personalized physical therapy process will be implemented to help make the recovery as easy as possible.

If you have suffered a knee injury or know someone who has chronic pain in their joints, could use assistance with mobility issues, or is seeking services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the physical therapy experts at North Platte Physical Therapy, Monument Physical Therapy, Big Country Rehabilitation, and Bear Lodge Rehabilitation today. Offering 18 different locations across Wyoming and Nebraska, our professional staff are ready and willing to help administer and create a personalized plan of action specific to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your physical therapy and related offerings, we look forward to meeting you and providing the type of service you can rely on to help improve your overall wellness very soon!