If you’re asking, “Why does my knee hurt?” you may wonder if the pain is from overuse, poor form, or even an old injury flaring up. Knee pain can slow you down, whether you’re pushing through a tough workout, hitting the trails, or playing your favorite sport. It’s frustrating when every step reminds you something isn’t right.
Whether you feel a sharp pain during movement, stiffness after rest, or a dull ache that won’t go away, ignoring it won’t make it better, and pushing through could make things worse.
The good news? There are ways to relieve pain, prevent further damage, and get back to doing what you love.
Types of Knee Injuries and How Physical Therapy Can Get You Up and Running Again
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries
A torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) can make your knee feel unstable and weak. This injury often happens when you twist or pivot suddenly while playing sports.
Signs include:
- Severe pain and swelling within hours
- Trouble bearing weight on the injured leg
- A popping sound at the time of injury
Physical therapy can help strengthen the knee joint and restore mobility. Exercises focus on stability, balance, and reducing pain. Knee braces can also support recovery and prevent knee pain during rehab.
Torn Meniscus
A meniscus tear happens when the cartilage that cushions your knee joint gets damaged. Twisting motions, deep squats, or direct impact can cause knee pain and swelling.
Symptoms may include:
- Knee locking or catching during movement
- Joint pain that worsens when bearing weight
- Fluid-filled swelling around the knee
Physical therapy works by improving joint flexibility and strengthening surrounding muscles. Taping, bracing, and targeted strengthening exercises can reduce pain and help you move without discomfort.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)
This common cause of knee pain affects young adults and athletes. Repeated pressure on the kneecap can trigger knee problems, leading to chronic knee pain.
Common symptoms:
- Pain felt behind or around the kneecap
- Discomfort that worsens with running or stairs
- Trouble straightening the knee after sitting for long periods
Physical therapy focuses on stretching tight muscles, strengthening weak ones, and using arch supports or special shoe inserts to correct foot alignment.
We believe you shouldn’t have to rely on painkillers, injections, or knee braces to stay active. With the right physical therapy approach, you can strengthen your knees, regain mobility, and prevent knee pain from returning.
If knee pain is keeping you from doing what you love, let’s fix it together. Call Piedmont Concierge Physical Therapy at 919-629-1819 to talk with a PT or schedule an appointment today!
Iliotibial Band Syndrome
This injury tendinitis condition happens when the iliotibial (IT) band becomes tight and rubs against the knee joint. Long-distance runners and cyclists are at an increased risk.
You might notice:
- Sharp pain on the outer side of the knee
- A sore knee that worsens with movement
- Trouble continuing activities due to discomfort
Stretching and soft tissue massage can reduce swelling and improve mobility. Physical therapy also helps correct muscle imbalances that cause knee pain.
Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in your knee wears down over time. This condition can lead to chronic knee pain, stiffness, and trouble moving.
Signs include:
- Joint pain that worsens with activity
- Stiffness in the morning or after sitting
- A feeling of the knee buckling under pressure
Losing weight, using an elastic sleeve for support, and strengthening exercises can help reduce pain. Physical therapy improves flexibility, strengthens muscles, and helps you avoid putting weight on the affected knee incorrectly.
How Physical Therapy Helps You Heal
Physical therapy is one of the best ways to recover from knee injuries and prevent knee pain in the future. A physical exam helps identify the cause of knee pain and the best treatment plan.
Rehab may include:
- Strengthening exercises to support the knee joint
- Joint fluid therapy to reduce swelling and stiffness
- Knee braces, an elastic bandage, or special shoe inserts for support
- Low-impact activities like swimming or using a soft surface for training
In severe cases, when conservative treatments don’t work, orthopedic surgery may be necessary. However, many knee problems improve with proper care, exercise, and sports medicine guidance.
Piedmont Concierge Physical Therapy For Knee Pain
A Personalized Approach To Knee Pain Relief
At Piedmont Concierge Physical Therapy, we focus on getting to the root cause of your knee pain—not just managing symptoms. Whether your pain comes from sports injuries, overuse, or chronic conditions, we create a plan tailored to your needs.
We help you move with confidence again by using hands-on therapy and targeted strengthening exercises. Our goal is to restore mobility, reduce pain, and prevent future injuries.
Why Choose A Concierge Physical Therapy Experience?
We take a different approach than traditional clinics. You get one-on-one care with a dedicated physical therapist in a comfortable, personalized setting.
With our concierge model, you can expect:
- Direct access to your physical therapist for ongoing support
- Appointments that fit your schedule—no waiting rooms or rushed sessions
- A treatment plan designed around your lifestyle and goals
Treating The Root Cause Of Why Your Knee Hurts
Pain in the knee joint often comes from muscle imbalances, joint stiffness, or poor movement patterns. We assess how your entire body moves to find and fix the underlying issues.
Common knee pain conditions we treat include:
- Runner’s knee and patellofemoral pain syndrome
- Torn meniscus and ligament injuries
- Arthritis-related knee stiffness and discomfort
- Post-surgical rehabilitation for knee injuries
Move Better, Feel Better, Live Pain-Free
We believe you shouldn’t have to rely on painkillers, injections, or knee braces to stay active. With the right physical therapy approach, you can strengthen your knees, regain mobility, and prevent knee pain from returning.
If knee pain is keeping you from doing what you love, let’s fix it together. Call Piedmont Concierge Physical Therapy at 919-629-1819 to talk with a PT or schedule an appointment today!