Is PT the best treatment for a sprained knee?

A knee sprain is a type of injury that is characterized by the tearing or stretching of a ligament in the knee. It’s most often caused by a traumatic physical event, such as one that might occur during a sports activity. This type of injury is relatively common, occurring at a rate of 2.29 per every 1,000 people that enter U.S. emergency departments. 

Are you or someone you know experiencing pain from a sprained knee? You may be considering a variety of treatment methods for this condition, but which is the best? Take a look at the sections below to not only learn more about sprained knees but to learn why PT is the best treatment for a sprained knee.

What are some of the symptoms of a sprained knee?

If you think you may have a sprained knee or are not familiar with the symptoms of a knee sprain, it may be helpful to read further. Some of the most common symptoms of this condition are pain in the knee during inactivity, swelling, difficulty walking, knee instability, stiffness, and pain that occurs during movement. Some severe cases of sprains may involve a popping sound coming from the knee upon initial injury. These symptoms can cause discomfort in everyday activities, like walking and driving. That is why finding the right treatment is integral.

Why is physical therapy the best treatment for a sprained knee?

Physical therapy is an effective mode of treatment that can be used to benefit a variety of injuries and health conditions. If you or someone you know is dealing with a sprained knee, you may want to consider the several benefits of physical therapy treatment. Take a look at the benefits listed below and keep them in mind as you determine which treatment option sounds best for your circumstances. 

• It can relieve pain — One of the benefits of receiving physical therapy is that it can help relieve pain around the knee. Each of the exercises performed during PT will be done within your pain threshold and to reduce pain long-term. 

• It can improve range of motion — Another one of the benefits associated with physical therapy care is that it can improve the range of motion in the knee. Therapists know how to use specific movements and exercises to increase functionality in your knee. 

• It can build strength around the knee — Physical therapy can help build strength around the knee. Whether you have weakness in your knee muscle, ligament, tendons, or somewhere else, they will work to address it. Building strength around the knee protects it from future injury and to aid in the recovery process. 

• It can prevent future injuries — PT is a good treatment option for those who have sprained knees because it can help prevent future injuries from occurring. Therapists can methodically build support around the knee to reduce weakness while also educating you on how best to avoid reinjuring your knee.

• It can reduce inflammation around the injury — If you’re experiencing significant swelling and inflammation around the area of your sprain, the PT specialists will typically be able to help. They have the tools and knowledge of exercises that can reduce fluid and inflammation buildup that may be contributing to your pain.

Physical therapy can provide a wide range of benefits that often last longer than most alternative treatments. When dealing with a sprained knee, PT may be a more efficient option for most patients hoping to recover quickly and restore function.

Advent Physical Therapy wants to help you get back to your favorite activities after experiencing a sprained knee

Here at Advent Physical Therapy, we know how much moving comfortably means to our patients, many of whom are athletes. Whether you’re dealing with a sprained knee or you’re hoping to optimize your performance, we’ve got your back. Our team of experienced physical therapy specialists knows how to get the results you’re looking for. We partner with our patients to create a productive, team-oriented atmosphere where everyone pushes everyone to be better. We’ll help you build a long-term health plan to prevent future pain and injury.

That means that you won’t have to worry as much about your knee after teaming up with us. We’ll provide you with the resources you need to feel less pain, improve your knee function, and even avoid future knee issues.

We’re proud to offer patient-centered physical therapy services. Every patient has a unique set of needs, and we know that their physical therapy plans should reflect that. A free screening can help us determine the right treatment course for your individual needs.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.