Targeting Your Knee Pain Right At The Source

We don’t want to just mask your knee pain symptoms. Instead, we want to address the underlying cause of your discomfort for long-term relief and improved function.

That’s why our physical therapists will always begin with a comprehensive assessment. We’ll evaluate your mobility, strength, walking patterns, and more. Our goal is to identify the specific factors contributing to your knee pain so we can develop the right treatment plan for your needs.

Common Knee Injuries or Conditions We See at Our Clinic

Osteoarthritis

• This degenerative joint disease causes the breakdown of cartilage in the knee, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Risk factors include age, obesity, previous knee injuries, and family history.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

• This refers to pain around the kneecap, often caused by overuse, muscle imbalances, or poor tracking of the kneecap itself. This condition is more common in young athletes, women, and people with flat feet or weak thigh muscles.

IT Band Syndrome

• The IT band is a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh. If irritated or inflamed, it can cause pain on the outer side of the knee and is common in runners and cyclists.

Meniscus Tears

• The meniscus is a ring of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber in the knee. A tear in the meniscus can cause pain and limited movement. Sudden twisting movements, sports injuries, and advanced age are common risk factors.

Sprains

• Sprains occur when the ligaments that stabilize the knee joint are stretched or torn. They’re common sports injuries and can result from quick pivoting movements or falls.

When Knee Pain Is More Than Just The Knee

One crucial thing about knee pain is that it doesn’t necessarily stem from an issue with the knee itself. Sometimes, knee pain doesn’t stem from an injury or osteoarthritis but from dysfunction in your lower body mechanics. 

Your knee depends on the function of the hip, ankle, and foot to operate smoothly. When these areas fall out of balance, stress is transferred to the knee. For example:

• Weak hip muscles can allow the thigh to rotate inward, increasing strain on your knee’s soft tissues
• A stiff ankle can limit forward movement, shifting the load to the knee during activities like walking, squatting, or climbing stairs
• Flat feet can force the knee into unnatural positions, leading to irritation over time
• Muscular imbalances can pull joints out of alignment, forcing the knee to absorb excess stress

How Star Physical Therapy Can Help Resolve Your Knee Pain

Once we’ve determined the source of your knee pain, we’ll work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment program to address it directly. While every program is personalized to your needs, here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

Prepare to Swim in the Water Safely

Swimming is a great way to stay active and cool as the weather warms up. However, it’s essential to take the necessary steps to ensure that you’re safe in the water. Check out these important swimming safety tips before heading out to the beach or pool this summer!

Ensure That A Lifeguard Is Present As You Swim  

Having a trained lifeguard watching over you at the pool or beach is a must. A lifeguard can prevent you from sustaining a severe injury or drowning and can generally ensure that you’re following the best practices for swimming. 

Swim With A Buddy

Not only is swimming with a friend a great way to stay safe, it’s also more fun! Swimming with a buddy can also help you hold yourself more accountable and stay determined as you progress through your laps. 

Never Leave A Child Unattended 

It is essential to make sure your child never swims alone– this is how accidents happen. Teach your children to ask permission before going in the water, and let them know that an adult should always be there to supervise them. 

Drink Plenty Of Water 

It can be easy to get dehydrated under the hot sun, even if you are in a cool and refreshing body of water. Remember to drink plenty of liquids and avoid dehydrating drinks with excess caffeine.

Wear Your Sunscreen 

Invest in a quality waterproof sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh rays. Wearing sunscreen can make a massive difference in the fight against skin cancer and can help you avoid painful burns.

Feel Better by Eating Better!

Smoked Salmon, Avocado and Cucumber Bites

These Smoked Salmon, Avocado, and Cucumber Bites are light, refreshing, and packed with flavor in every crisp, creamy bite. They’re the perfect easy appetizer for a healthy snack or an elegant addition to any gathering.

Slice the cucumber approximately 1/4-inch thick and lay flat on a serving plate. Add the avocado and lime juice to a bowl and use a fork to mash until creamy. Assemble the bites by spreading a small amount of avocado on each cucumber, then topping with a thin slice of smoked salmon. Garnish each bite with finely chopped chives and cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.