Knee Pain
Knee pain is one of the most frequent concerns we evaluate at THRIVE Physical Therapy + Wellness, especially among adults experiencing age-related changes or those who maintain active lifestyles. Many cases develop gradually as the knee loses support from the muscles that help stabilize the joint. When these muscles become weak or imbalanced, the knee absorbs more stress than it should, leading to irritation over time. Injuries are another common source of pain. Falls, repeated impact from running, or strain during high-demand sports can place significant stress on the ligaments, tendons, or cartilage, resulting in soreness, swelling, or limited movement.
What is Knee Pain?
Knee pain can arise from a single injury or develop slowly due to ongoing wear on the joint. Conditions such as osteoarthritis occur when the protective cartilage gradually breaks down, often causing stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. When the joint no longer moves smoothly, even simple activities like walking or climbing stairs can become challenging.
If acute knee pain isn’t addressed early, it can easily become a long-term problem. Once pain becomes chronic, it often requires more extensive and specialized treatment to restore function and reduce discomfort.
What are the symptoms of Knee Pain?
People with knee pain may experience a sharp or stabbing sensation, especially during weight-bearing activities. Others describe weakness or instability that makes it difficult to walk with confidence or rely on the affected leg. Some individuals notice popping, grinding, or catching in the joint, which may be linked to arthritis, cartilage issues, or ligament injuries.
These symptoms can significantly limit everyday life. Knee pain often leads to difficulty walking, reduced balance, and hesitation during basic movements such as bending, squatting, or navigating stairs. Many people begin avoiding favorite activities or changing the way they move because the discomfort becomes too intense. Over time, this can lead to loss of strength, decreased mobility, and a decline in overall quality of life.
What Is Our Approach To Fixing / Treating Knee Pain?
At THRIVE Physical Therapy + Wellness, we understand that knee pain rarely has a single cause. That’s why we take a comprehensive, individualized approach designed to create lasting change rather than temporary relief. We begin with a detailed clinical evaluation to understand what is driving your symptoms. Whether the issue is related to muscle weakness, faulty movement patterns, inflammation, or a past injury, identifying the root cause is essential to building an effective plan.
From there, we create a personalized program that focuses on improving joint stability and restoring normal movement. This often includes strengthening the muscles around the hip, knee, and ankle, as these areas work together to support the joint. Manual therapy may also be incorporated to decrease pain, reduce stiffness, and enhance mobility.
Our goal is not only to help you feel better, but to ensure you’re able to return to your normal activities with confidence. We provide education, a tailored home program, and the tools you need to maintain your progress and prevent future issues. Over the years, we’ve helped countless individuals regain their mobility, rebuild strength, and return to the hobbies and daily routines they love — without fear of knee pain holding them back.