Chiropractic Care & Knee Pain: What Canadians Need to Know
What Causes Knee Pain?
Knee pain can affect Canadians of all ages and activity levels — developing gradually or occurring suddenly following an injury.
Common causes and contributing factors include:
- Aging and changes within the joint
- Injuries (i.e. slips, falls, sports-related injuries, etc.)
- Job-related wear and tear (i.e. frequent kneeling, squatting, or prolonged standing)
- Sports and other physical activities, particularly repetitive or high-impact movements
Knee pain is commonly associated with osteoarthritis (OA) — a condition that affects the joints and can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 500 million people globally currently live with OA.
However, knee pain isn’t always caused by OA. Other injuries and conditions can also lead to symptoms. Understanding what may be contributing to your knee pain is an important first step toward managing it.
| SEE ALSO
∙ Rehabilitation after Knee Replacement
∙ Preventing Falls at Home: Safety Tips for High-Traffic Areas
∙ Top 6 Common Myths About Chiropractic Treatment
∙ Looking for a Canadian Chiropractor? Find a Local Practitioner Now
Managing Knee Pain: Tips from Canadian Chiropractors
Mobility
Gentle stretching and walking can help improve flexibility and movement, while decreasing any stiffness or knee pain. The CCA’s “Move Like It Matters” program is a great starting point for exploring safe movements during your recovery journey.
Exercise
Certain exercises, while being mindful of your knee pain, can help you increase your endurance and build strength.
Squats and lunges are examples of exercises that can effectively target the muscles and joints supporting your knees. Additionally, a chiropractor can help you develop a personalized care plan that contains appropriate exercises.
| SEE ALSO: Lifting Loads Safely: 8 Tips from Canadian Chiropractors
Weight Management
Excess weight can be an important risk factor due to the additional stress it can put on the affected knee. Even a small amount of weight-loss is capable of reducing pain and limiting further damage.
Heat & Cold
Applying heat and/or cold can help relieve pain when aggravated. Heat can relieve stiffness, while ice may help with pain.
Experiencing Knee Pain? Find a Local Chiropractor Now
Chiropractors are uniquely positioned to offer drug-free, non-invasive support to patients experiencing knee pain.
As spine, muscle, joint, and nervous system experts, they’re able to help Canadians:
- Manage symptoms
- Improve their quality of life
- Promote long-term joint and muscle health
Explore all the options available to you on your recovery journey. Find a Chiropractor near you now.
DISCLAIMER: No information from this document is intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consultation with a chiropractor or another primary care provider is recommended for anyone suffering from a health problem or considering starting a new exercise program. The CCA recognizes that research and data is constantly evolving. Please use this information in conjunction with the best available evidence.