Physical Therapy for Knee

Written by Andy Zapata

Injuring your knee can leave you in constant pain. It can limit your mobility and prevent you from going about your daily routine. It might even prevent you from working, and if the injury is not treated properly, leave you at risk for reinjury or further damage. Knee injuries are common following car accidents and can sometimes go unnoticed for several days. If you have been in a car accident, even if you feel you haven’t sustained injuries, always seek immediate medical treatment. It is common to feel pain in joints days after a car accident. If you are experiencing pain, consult a medical professional and then consider beginning physical therapy for knee injuries.

Types of Knee Injuries

There are many ways to injure a knee. Car accidents are a very common cause of knee injuries. Sports injuries, work injuries, and normal wear and tear can also contribute to knee problems. Because joints are complex with many moving parts, there are several elements that can be damaged in your knee that will contribute to your pain. If you experience knee pain, consult with a physical therapist in Miami to determine the source.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, common types of knee injuries include:

Fractures
Dislocation
ACL Injuries
PCL Injuries
Collateral Ligament Injuries
Meniscal Tears
Tendon Tears

In many cases, proper preventative treatment and physical therapy can help the knee return to normal functioning. In more severe cases, surgery might be necessary.

Treatments for Knee Injuries

The type of treatment you receive for your injury often depends on the type and severity of your injury. A doctor will sometimes recommend resting and moving the joint as little as possible until tears and bruises have time to heal. They might also prescribe medications that will assist with pain and bring down the inflammation. In many cases, physical therapy is strongly recommended. Surgery is often the last resort treatment meant to repair the damage that rest and exercise cannot achieve.

Benefits of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is one of the best things you can do for a knee injury. Ice and heat therapy help with inflammation and relieve pain and tension in the muscles to increase your mobility. Consistent targeted exercises strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint and improve your chances for a full recovery. Physical therapy requires consistent work and patience and can leave you feeling more energized. Another key benefit: PT can help manage your pain symptoms over time. This is why medical professionals recommend PT for both injuries as preventative care and as a recovery tool after knee surgery.