Are you experiencing a niggle in the knee?
The start of a new month or a new phase of our lives can be enough to invigorate and renew our exercise / activity goals. Often the body can be quick to dampen our enthusiasm with aches and niggles that creep in and side swipe us out of seemingly nowhere.
So, what is a niggle in the knee, and should I do something about it?
A niggle in the knee (otherwise referred to as Patellofemoral pain syndrome) can manifest itself as you increase your activity levels – whether it’s the intensity, length, or regularity, trying out something new (including new sneakers) or getting back to your usual activity after a period of rest. Your kneecap (patella) is not tracking nice and evenly across the joint as you’re running / cycling / climbing that hill or stairs, or perhaps stuck in your office chair all day, which unleashes a world of pain as several things go awry.
Symptoms include:
- Aching pain of the knee joint
- Tenderness, sometimes accompanied by swelling at the front of the knee
- Pain is often worse on movement, specifically when walking / running up or down hill or stairs, squatting, or when sitting for long periods
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, then it’s your body’s way of asking for help.
“The purpose of pain is to move us into action; it is not to make us suffer.” – Tony Robbins
How can Remedial Massage and Sports Therapy help?
Myofascial release and exercise therapy prescriptions have been proven to improve patellofemoral pain syndrome. [1]
Following a simple protocol of assessments, including some orthopaedic tests to help locate the structures affected, we can work out an appropriate treatment plan. This might involve hands-on myofascial release and other soft tissue techniques, as well as taping or dry needling if needed, and a robust, simple at-home exercise plan. With these tools, we can work together to kick those symptoms and get you back on track!
[1] https://www.ijcrr.com/article_html.php?did=2668&issueno=0
Written by Jenny Ossa, Remedial Massage Therapist
Call 08 8110 4300 or book online.