Physical therapy for knee pain: What to expect

If you suffer from any sort of ongoing knee pain, planning on having knee surgery or recovering from surgery, your doctor will usually suggest physical therapy. This will help to reduce the pain, regain function, restore strength and make mobility easier. Physical therapy accomplishes this by developing a plan to suit each individual patient and their pain or injury.

When you first visit a physical therapist for your knee pain, you can expect to answer questions about your medical history, including any prior injuries. Your therapist will always keep your overall health in mind when developing your treatment plan. There will be an ongoing discussion about how your knee feels and what hurts, your progress, goals and scheduling. It's important to make sure that you have a realistic plan for your physical therapy.

Depending on the source of your knee pain, you may need a supportive aid, such as crutches, until you are able to walk on your own. It's imperative that you learn how to use these devices properly during physical therapy, or you could risk another injury. The physical therapist may have you use a cane and will advise you about which size to get and which hand you should. If you have a swollen knee, you may need to wear a brace to provide support and compression.

"Think of your physical therapist as a coach, mentor and caregiver, all rolled into one" says the American Physical Therapy Association. Your therapist's goal is to help you eliminate your knee pain and gain optimal use of your leg, while with learning skills to avoid injuries and future knee pain.

If you are experiencing pain, have had or are planning to have knee surgery call Pinnacle Physical Therapy today to schedule an appointment. Allow us to support you on your path to recovery! Two convenient locations - Post Fall (208) 777-4242 or Coeur d'Alene (208) 665-2000. We offer extended hours to get you in within 24-48 hours.