RELIEVING HIP, KNEE AND LEG PAIN
Your hip, knee and lower leg are tough—but injuries happen. Your hips and knees are your largest joints, supporting your body’s weight. They work in close coordination, giving us the mobility we need. Between arthritis, injuries and age, however, pain can flare up. What Causes Hip, Knee and Leg Pain? Hip, knee and leg pain are surprisingly common. Thus, their source can come from a variety of things. If you’re experiencing pain in any part of your leg, pinpointing the exact spot can help you determine the cause. Mayo Clinic has pinpointed several leading causes of hip, knee and leg pain. While many causes exist, the most likely are: Do you have pain in your hips and legs while standing or walking? Do you have trouble getting comfortable in your seat? Are you limping, lurching or are experiencing poor balance? While some causes are more severe than others, a physician can identify each. As the body ages, joints become inflamed. Cartilage may wear down, reducing the “buffer” between bones In some cases, limited blood flow may cause bone tissue death, or necrosis. If you’re experiencing redness, inflammation and immobilized joints, the condition may be severe. What Are the Symptoms? While leg pain is noticeable by a slew of symptoms, several stick out. Aching or stiffness around the hip, groin, back or thigh may be a sign of deeper problems. A decreased range of motion, too, is a sign of deeper problems which may later result in hip, knee or leg pain. Sometimes, inactivity can contribute to immobility—and later pain. If you’re limping, lurching or are experiencing bad balance, contact a physician. While some hip, knee and leg pains go away, those lasting longer than several months may be hinting at a deeper issue. • Arthritis • Dislocation • Hip fracture • Sprains and strains • Tendinitis • Pinched nerves • Osteoporosis • Cancer
1. Stand up on a step or raised surface. 2. Lower one leg towards the floor by tilting your pelvis. 3. Return back to a leveled position and repeat.
How Physical Therapy Can Help In many cases, physical therapy can help patients increase leg mobility. In doing so, they can stretch, flex and strengthen the muscles responsible for support. If a joint appears deformed, or if sudden swelling occurs, contact a physician immediately. A good physical therapy program can assist with post-operation treatment, too. If you’ve undergone treatment for osteoporosis, dislocation or a fracture, your therapist can help you reclaim full mobility—and a healthy lifestyle. From start to finish, we’re dedicated to your ongoing wellness. On every level, physical therapy serves to enhance the patient’s quality of life. We’re here to help, and we have years of experience backing every therapy option. Call us today, and tell us about your symptoms.
- Chris Ostling PT, DPT
You can take various steps to relieve pain, such as heat and cold therapy, or pain relievers, making it easier for you to exercise and stay active. If pain persists, your next step is to see what is causing the pain and call us to schedule an appointment. Next Step Physical Therapy can help you relieve your hip, knee or leg pain. I’ve attached a FREE Screening coupon to this newsletter…
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