Knee pain is something that a lot of aging adults experience on a regular basis. They might have old injuries, arthritis, or simple wear and tear contributing to the pain. The problem is that the pain can affect mobility and quality of life, so seniors need to address it. Physical therapy offers a variety of solutions that help to manage pain, improve quality of life, and regain strength and flexibility.
Causes of Knee Pain
But why is knee pain so common in older adults? One of the biggest causes is osteoarthritis, which happens when cartilage in the knee joint itself wears down. This leads to pain and stiffness, causing mobility issues. Injuries like breaks, sprains, or torn ligaments leave lasting damage that often hurts quite a bit later on.
As seniors age, their muscles and joints are more prone to injuries as well, which can contribute to knee pain. Other conditions, like bursitis, may also cause knee pain.
Strengthening Muscles
When the muscles around the knee aren’t as strong as they could be, that increases stress on the knee joint. Of course, that contributes to even more pain.
In-home physical therapy providers work with their patients to determine which areas need strengthening so that they can put together customized exercise plans. Building strength in the right muscles helps to stabilize the joint, reducing pain.
Improving Range of Motion
If the joint can’t move well in its normal range of motion, that stiffness and difficulty with range of motion leads to pain. Physical therapy helps to restore both flexibility and range of motion, usually through gentle stretching.
Continuing to do these stretching exercises gradually loosens tight muscles, helping the knee regain flexibility. Everyday movements become easier and seniors experience less pain.
Managing Pain
Using other methods of managing pain can also be an important part of any physical therapy plan. Physical therapists help patients to learn what works for them, including using hot and cold therapy to reduce inflammation and stiffness. Massage, electrical stimulation, and specific exercises and movements can all be part of the plan.
Adjusting Posture and Gait
Often, when seniors have been fighting knee pain for a long time, they may have been unconsciously compensating by moving in ways that affect posture and gait. Physical therapy providers help their patients adjust both posture and gait to reduce strain on hips, knees, and other areas of the body.
Preventing Future Injuries
What’s really important is for seniors to avoid further injuring their knees and other parts of their bodies. Physical therapy helps them learn how to move and exercise safely at home, helping seniors reduce the risk of falling or causing bigger knee issues.
Regular sessions with a physical therapist help to keep seniors active and mobile, even with knee problems.
For aging adults battling knee pain, physical therapy can offer other solutions besides medications that may not work as well as expected. Seniors can improve their mobility, experience better quality of life, and boost independence all at the same time.
If you or someone you know needs Physical Therapy in Mankato, MN, contact Adara Home Health. We provide quality and affordable home care services for many fragile or senior members in the communities we serve. Call us at (888) 525-7742 for more information.