The knee plays an essential role in movement. At Atkinson Chiropractic in Turlock, California, family chiropractor David Atkinson, DC, understands the importance of healthy knees and uses chiropractic knee manipulation and muscle therapy to alleviate knee pain and keep you moving comfortably. Call the clinic or schedule an appointment online to learn more about knee pain.

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What causes knee pain?

The knee is a complex joint responsible for supporting the upper body and movement in the legs. It’s the largest joint in the body. The joint includes several components. The femur (thighbone) joins to the tibia (shinbone), while the patella (kneecap) protects the joint.

Any part of the knee can become damaged and cause pain. The most common causes of knee pain include:

Torn meniscus

The meniscus is the flexible, C-shaped cartilage that sits between the femur and tibia. When you shift weight or turn suddenly, the meniscus can tear. These injuries can affect anyone, but they’re most common in athletes.

ACL injury

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a thick ligament that joins the femur and tibia. Inflammation and small tears in the ligament weaken mobility in your legs and make it difficult to stretch.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a type of joint inflammation that can either damage the cartilage outside your joints or the synovial lining inside.

Bursitis

Bursitis is an inflammatory condition that irritates the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. Knee bursitis can make stretching your leg feel painful and stiff. Over time, it can affect your gait and posture.

How is knee pain diagnosed?

Your provider at Atkinson Chiropractic performs a thorough movement assessment to diagnose knee pain. The way you stand, walk, bend, and turn gives your chiropractor vital information to evaluate imbalances in your knee. Your chiropractor also reviews your medical history and gently manipulates your knee to target the area of pain.

After your diagnostic exam, your provider may order imaging scans, such as X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

How can chiropractic care relieve knee pain?

After diagnosing your knee pain, your provider can create a personalized treatment plan to relieve your discomfort and restore your function. Your chiropractor at Atkinson Chiropractic may manipulate the tissues that support your knee to improve the joint’s alignment.

Chiropractic treatments for knee pain include:

  • Chiropractic knee manipulation
  • Muscle therapy
  • Heat and ice therapy
  • Activity modification
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises

Your individualized treatment plan may include multiple techniques to target your pain effectively.

Call Atkinson Chiropractic or schedule an appointment online to learn more about knee pain.