Chiropractors treat over 27 million Americans annually, but it’s not always for neck or back pain. In fact, visiting a chiropractor could help relieve some of the knee pain you’re experiencing, too. A chiropractor can help manage, or in some cases eliminate, your injury or pain.

Are you on the fence about visiting a chiropractor for knee pain? There are a few factors to consider before you make your choice. 

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know before visiting a knee chiropractor. With this guide, you can make an informed decision before scheduling your appointment. 

The care you need is only a few questions away.

WHAT CAUSES KNEE PAIN?

Sometimes knee pain is caused by an intense sports injury. Maybe you were tackled during a game and your leg twisted in the wrong direction. While those incidents might seem obvious, some knee injuries are much more subtle.

For example, the most common cause of knee pain is that the cartilage degrades over time.

As the cartilage degrades, you can form arthritis, which involves inflammation and stiffening of your knee joint. 

Some doctors suggest one of two solutions: medication or surgery. However, those aren’t your only options. Instead, you can visit a knee chiropractor who can help relieve your pain.

Another cause of knee pain is excess body weight. If you’re overweight, your knees are bearing that load. Your knees have to handle the pressure of your weight with every step. If you’re overweight and suffering from knee pain, losing a few pounds can improve your knee health.

Meanwhile, visiting a chiropractor for knee pain will help you improve your range of motion without surgery.

By visiting a chiropractor, you can find a non-invasive, natural approach to healing.

CAN A CHIROPRACTOR HELP?

Nearly two-thirds of Americans agree that chiropractors have their best interests in mind. If you’re considering a chiropractor for knee pain, make sure to speak to them about all the problems you’re facing. Let them know where you’re experiencing pain symptoms.

During your first appointment, your chiropractor will complete a comprehensive evaluation. They’ll ask about your medical history, what you believe caused the pain, and more. The chiropractor will likely consider your spine, neck, and hips in addition to examining your knees.

Why? Our bodies are integrated machines. If one component is off, it could cause pain somewhere else.

In other words, your knee pain is possibly caused by a spine unalignment. 

If your spine isn’t aligned, you might lean to one side as your walk. As a result, your hip will rotate slightly with each step. This will require your knee to adjust to the new angle, which can cause your knee pain. 

Other reasons for knee pain might include:

• Tight muscles
• Unevenly developed leg muscles
• Hip joint issues

Your chiropractor will consider these possible causes and more.

TREATMENT

Once your chiropractor completes their assessment, they’ll develop a customized treatment plan. If they’ve determined your knee pain is caused by another condition, your plan will include solving the cause for your pain. 

Your chiropractor will also create a plan to help you manage your knee pain. A knee adjustment and plan will heal any damage you’ve sustained. 

One of the main components of treatment is to reduce your inflammation. A chiropractor might suggest Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) to reduce your swelling. They might also suggest ice or hot packs.

These techniques will help your body begin the healing process by focusing on the affected area.

The electrical currents will help reduce your swelling. However, your chiropractor will still want to determine why the joint or muscle swelled in the first place.

Once the swelling comes down, your chiropractor will want to focus on restoring function to the knee joint. A lot of chiropractic work relies on chiropractic manipulation to reinforce or recover mobilization. If a lack of mobility isn’t an issue, your chiropractor might suggest a deep tissue treatment or trigger-point therapy.

Whether your knee is the root problem or elsewhere, your treatment and pain management plan will likely involve:

• A chiropractic knee adjustment
• Ice application to reduce inflammation
• Soft tissue massage to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, and increase range of motion
• Ultrasound treatments
• Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises

Over time, these chiropractic knee adjustment treatments can help reduce your pain.

Self-Treatment

Do not try to treat your knee pain at home using a self-adjustment video. These videos can lead to further muscle damage. Instead, try to visit a licensed chiropractor.

Their understanding of the musculoskeletal system can help determine why you’re in pain. If necessary, they can perform a proper knee adjustment to relieve your pain. 

A knee adjustment or manipulation will affect your overall posture. It can also help reduce joint restrictions. Chiropractic knee adjustments are an ideal solution if your knee pain is associated with mobility issues.

Instead of trying to solve the problem on your own, visit a chiropractor who can help.

THE EFFECTS OF KNEE PAIN

Don’t ignore your knee pain. Instead, it’s important to get help as soon as possible. Visiting a chiropractor for knee pain can help you avoid pain when:

• Walking up or downstairs
• Squatting
• Sitting down
• Getting up
• Getting out of bed
• Walking
• Hobbies (sports or gardening)

Everything you do throughout the day could impact your quality of life. When you’re in pain, you’re less likely to remain physically active. This can lead to weight gain and muscle loss.

It could also impact your coordination.

A lack of physical activity can also leave you more susceptible to future injuries. When it’s difficult to move without pain, you’ll feel unable to participate in life. As a result, you might also feel anxious or depressed in time.

Visiting a chiropractor for knee pain can help strengthen your knees and overall health.

STAND STRONG: SEEK A CHIROPRACTOR FOR KNEE PAIN

Don’t let knee pain slow your life down. Instead, consider visiting a chiropractor for knee pain. They can ensure your body is properly aligned, improving your overall quality of life.

Eager to start healing? Contact us today to schedule an appointment!