Do you have trouble squatting and walking up/down stairs? Do these movements cause knee pain? If so, know that this is common and there are good solutions. The good news is that in many cases medications, injections, or surgery are not necessary.
Often when people struggle with knee pain for daily activities they first resort to medication. That is because pain meds are relatively cheap and easy to get. The downside is not only do they not SOLVE THE PROBLEM, however they can result in GI or cardiac issues. In fact, many individuals with known cardiac issues are discouraged form taking them. When people do not find relief from pain meds, they may find themselves at their PCP or an orthopedic. It is common for people to be offered an injection. While more powerful and localized than taking pain medication, again the injection does not SOLVE THE PROBLEM. It only masks the pain. Then when it wears off, the person will be in the same spot dealing with the pain.
At this point, people may be referred to a physical therapist. They are told they must 1st see a PT before they can get that MRI which they are seeking. So they show up and half-heartedly attempt to solve the problem…just biding time until they can have that MRI paid for only to then be told there is nothing to be done until the pain is so bad that the orthopedic will do surgery.
At this point people give up and just continue to struggle with going up and down stairs and squatting to pick items up off the floor. BUT what if I told you there was another way? Another way from the start that has the potential to change the outcome, reduce pain, and help you to avoid surgery altogether. Would that be something you would be interested in?
Lets go back to the beginning when you begin to notice knee trouble with squatting and stairs. At this point, the goal should be to find yourself to a physical therapist to address range of motion, strength, and balance issues which will ultimately help you to complete those tasks with less or no pain. But how? I thought there was nothing to be done based on what the MRI would show if actually done?
See…here is the thing…most people over the age of 40 have abnormal findings on an MRI but NO PAIN. So lets put imaging aside for now.
Typically working on strength of the thigh and hip muscles will dramatically reduce or ELIMINATE knee pain altogether. Building strength to support the knee and absorb the strain of squatting or stairs often solves the problem.
Looking to move on from that persistent knee pain with daily life…or prevent it from developing in the 1st place?
Then click this LINK to request a personalized consultation to learn the steps you can take to eliminate pain with squats and stairs.