Functional anatomy investigated: what causes knee pain?

Mar 29 2008 by Hannah Davies, The Journal

Knee pain is a common problem. It can cause discomfort at work or prevent us playing a favourite sport.

Integration. The thigh bone’s connected to the…

Understandably we are often preoccupied with what’s happening at the site of pain (knee). However, success may come from stepping back. To find the answers for the knee we must look at the function of the hip and ankle at least.

What influences the knee?

The knee is between the hip and the ankle. An appreciation of our structure and the way we produce movement will enable us to prevent and rehabilitate conditions like knee pain. Discounting problems caused by direct trauma, what is causing the knee pain and why is it that the injury often recurs?

Scenario 1: Ankle restriction – This may be caused by an old injury that has reduced the range of movement of one ankle. As we walk, run or jump forces act downwards on the knee from the load of the body and upwards from the ground. The affected side is most likely less able to deal efficiently with these forces and the knee will take a disproportionate load. The knee is working too hard and may suffer damage. The muscles and connective tissue are pulled out of line and are at risk from injury too.

Scenario 2: Hip Instability – As shown above asymmetry (one side different to the other) can cause problems for the knee. Here’s another example at the hip. The hip joint and pelvis can become weak and unstable from inactivity or poor training methods. This can lead to poor postural alignment and significantly it cannot deal with the forces placed on it. A weak pelvis, which is unable to provide a stable power base, will ask the knee to do some extra work to help it out. Over time,this will cause problems.

Exercise application

If you are suffering from knee or any other joint pain the best course of action is to see a physiotherapist. Together with an exercise specialist you should look to produce and embark on a rehabilitation programme that will take into account your specific functional needs.

Functional Trainer provides personal training and the BioSignature technique for a holistic approach to health and performance: 07792 761 324, or jackwwalton@hotmail.com