Knee Pain Treatment

The knee carries several times your body weight with every step, and in active states like Colorado and Arizona — hiking, skiing, pickleball, golf — it takes a beating. Knee pain is one of the most common reasons patients walk (or limp) through our doors, and one of the most rewarding to treat well, because the evidence for non-surgical care is strong.

Common causes we treat

Knee osteoarthritis — the big one, especially over 50: stiffness after sitting, pain with stairs, swelling after activity. Patellofemoral pain (kneecap pain) — pain at the front of the knee with stairs, squatting, or sitting long periods; common in runners and desk workers alike. Meniscus problems — catching, clicking, and joint-line pain; degenerative meniscus tears in middle age usually do NOT need surgery (rigorous trials show exercise therapy matches arthroscopy for most). Tendinopathies — patellar and quadriceps tendon pain in jumpers and lifters. Ligament sprains and post-injury instability. Bursitis and swelling conditions.

How we treat knee pain

  • Diagnosis first: exam, movement assessment, and imaging when it will change the plan.

  • Progressive strengthening — the closest thing to a cure for most knee pain. Quadriceps, glute, and hip strength measurably reduce arthritis and kneecap pain. Our physical therapists build and progress the program.

  • Manual therapy and chiropractic care for the joint restrictions and hip/ankle mechanics feeding the knee problem.

  • Injections when appropriate: corticosteroid injections for arthritis flares and gel (hyaluronic acid) injections for some arthritic knees — used to enable rehab, not replace it.

  • Acupuncture — evidence-supported for knee osteoarthritis pain. [link: /acupuncture]

  • Activity retraining: load management and technique work that lets you return to the sport instead of quitting it.

FAQs

Is walking good for an arthritic knee?

Yes — regular, tolerable activity plus strengthening is the guideline-recommended core treatment. Motion is lotion; we'll help you find the right dose.

Do I need an MRI?

Often not initially. Exam findings and X-rays answer most knee questions; MRI is for cases where the result changes management.

Can I avoid a knee replacement?

Many patients delay it for years — or indefinitely — with strengthening, weight management, and periodic injections. When a replacement truly is the right call, we'll say so and refer well.

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