Understanding knee injuries
The knee is one of the most commonly injured joints in the body. It bears significant load during everyday activity and is particularly vulnerable in sport. Problems range from acute ligament ruptures to gradual-onset conditions like patellofemoral pain or osteoarthritis.
Different knee conditions require very different treatment approaches. The initial assessment identifies exactly which structures are involved so your treatment plan is precise from the start.
Common knee conditions treated
- ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injuries: from sporting pivoting movements; treated conservatively or as rehabilitation following surgery
- Meniscus tears: cartilage injuries causing locking, swelling, and joint line pain
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome: pain around or behind the kneecap, often worse with stairs and prolonged sitting
- ITB syndrome (runner's knee): lateral knee pain common in runners and cyclists
- Patellar tendinopathy: pain at the base of the kneecap, typically in jumping sports
- Knee osteoarthritis: degenerative joint changes causing pain, stiffness, and reduced function
- PCL, MCL, and LCL injuries: ligament sprains of varying severity
Symptoms
- Pain localised to a specific part of the knee, or diffuse aching
- Swelling or a feeling of fullness in the joint
- Clicking, locking, or giving way
- Stiffness after rest or first thing in the morning
- Pain worsened by stairs, squatting, or prolonged sitting
- Weakness in the thigh or difficulty weight-bearing
How physiotherapy helps
Knee rehabilitation combines manual therapy to address pain and stiffness with progressive loading to rebuild the strength, stability, and neuromuscular control that protects the joint during activity.
What treatment involves
- Clinical assessment including orthopaedic testing to identify the injured structure and severity
- Manual therapy to reduce pain, improve joint mechanics, and restore range of motion
- Targeted strengthening of the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and hip stabilisers
- Gait and movement analysis for running-related injuries
- Sport-specific rehabilitation and return-to-activity planning
- Post-surgical rehabilitation following ACL reconstruction, meniscectomy, or knee replacement
What to expect from recovery
Recovery timelines vary considerably. Mild ligament sprains and patellofemoral pain can resolve within four to eight weeks with the right rehabilitation. More complex injuries, including post-surgical cases, require a longer, staged return. The programme is built around your goals throughout, whether that means returning to sport or simply walking without pain.