Knee Pain
Knee pain, swelling and a knee that gives way can come from runner's knee, a meniscus tear, a ligament sprain such as an ACL tear, tendinitis or arthritis. Many knee injuries can be rehabbed without surgery, and when surgery is needed, therapy before and after matters. We treat knee pain in Chubbuck and Pocatello, Idaho.
Common reasons a knee hurts
Runner's knee
Runner's knee, also called patellofemoral pain, is aching around or behind the kneecap, and knee pain going up stairs or knee pain when squatting is typical.
Meniscus tear
A meniscus tear, in the cartilage cushions of the knee, can cause catching, swelling and pain when you twist.
ACL tear and ligament sprains
An ACL tear usually follows a pivot or landing injury. Ligament sprains range from mild to complete.
Patellar tendinitis and IT band syndrome
Patellar tendinitis, called jumper's knee, is pain just below the kneecap. IT band syndrome is pain along the outside of the knee.
Knee arthritis
Knee arthritis stiffens and aches, especially after sitting. Our Arthritis & Joint Pain page has more.
Other causes
Bursitis, dislocation, medial plica syndrome, work injuries and car accidents can also hurt the knee.
The hip, the knee and the foot work as a chain
A knee injury can cause problems at the hip, and the reverse. Because it is hard to move without using both, we look up and down the leg. See Hip Pain and Foot & Ankle Pain.
Physical therapy is gentle, noninvasive and drug-free, so there is little risk of side effects, and it is right for people of all ages and abilities. Your plan is built on your exam, not a template.
Rebuilding strength around the knee
Therapeutic exercise and strengthening are the core, with blood flow restriction training to build the thigh muscles with light loads when the knee cannot take heavy weight. Manual therapy, dynamic taping and dry needling fit where they help. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization and shockwave therapy are used for tendon trouble such as patellar tendinitis.
Matt Krammen, PT, DPT, Cert DN is an orthopedic physical therapist who treats knee problems in athletes and weekend adventurers alike.
Surgery, sport and arthritis
Some knees need an operation. We help either way.
Before and after ACL reconstruction or knee replacement
Strength going in helps, and rehab coming out is the hard part. See post-surgical rehab.
Return to sport
Getting back to play is covered on sports injury rehab.
See a doctor first if you have
- A knee that is locked and cannot straighten
- Sudden swelling after an injury with a pop
- A hot, red, swollen knee with fever
- Inability to bear weight
Idaho allows direct access to physical therapy, so you do not need a referral from a doctor to begin. Some insurance plans, and Medicare typically, may still require one. If you are unsure, call us and we will check your plan. We accept most insurance plans and verify your benefits before you arrive. Auto injury liens, Medpay and workers compensation are accepted, and there is a self-pay option. Call the office to confirm your plan.
Knee pain care in Chubbuck, Idaho
Call or request an appointment at our Chubbuck clinic. We see patients from Chubbuck, Pocatello and the surrounding area.
We see patients at our Chubbuck clinic from Chubbuck and Pocatello, Idaho.