Knee pain is one of the most serious types of pain, as it can affect the mobility and independence of patients who suffer from it. Physical therapy rehabilitation is a great option for patients who want to regain their quality of life while avoiding the risks and complications of surgery. The Advent Physical Therapy office of Hastings, Michigan, explains some of your knee pain and rehabilitation treatment options.
Treatments that you can do yourself
For minor knee pain and injuries, there are some home treatments that patients can use to recover.
- RICE method — The RICE method stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. For overuse injuries such as tendonitis, these four steps can help alleviate symptoms of pain and help your body heal. Don’t rest too much as muscle atrophy can set in after just a few days and make joint pain worse.
- Low-impact exercise — Sports that are rough on the knees like running, tennis or basketball should be avoided. But lower intensity exercise like walking, swimming or yoga can be beneficial for knee pain. Exercise increases circulation and blood flow to aid the body’s healing process. Building strength and stability in the muscles around the knee may also help prevent future injury.
When to seek medical attention
While minor injuries can be treated at home, see a medical professional for your knee pain and rehabilitation if you experience the following symptoms:
- Inability to put any weight on the knee or joint
- Pain that gets worse over time
- Visible deformity in the knee or kneecap
- The knee is red and hot to the touch or fever
Scheduling physical therapy for knee pain with Advent Physical Therapy
The therapists of Advent Physical Therapy are skilled in treating patients with any type of knee injury. If you are in the Hastings area, contact us today to schedule your initial appointment and discuss your knee pain and rehabilitation treatment options.