Swimmer’s Knee occurs due to repetitive strain to knee ligaments, most commonly with breaststroke.
At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our treatment of Swimmer’s Knee aims to:
Swimmer’s Knee Treatment
What is Swimmer’s Knee?
Ligaments are cartilaginous tissue which act to connect bone and muscle. The medial collateral ligament (MCL) runs along the medial or inner side of the knee.
Swimmer’s Knee refers to MCL strain usually a result of the breaststroke swimming technique, causing inflammation and irritation. This ligament pain is due to the repetitive flexion-extension, adduction and external rotation of the knee against the hydrodynamic (water) environment. This stress and strain to the MCL increases the susceptibility of developing Swimmer’s Knee, causing swelling, pain and inflammation in the knee.
What are the causes?
This condition is triggered and worsened by sustained pressure and strain to the MCL in the knee. The main factors which influence injury include repetitive overload/stress from breaststroke swimming especially, with intense and frequent training sessions during the week.
What are the symptoms?
- Deep pain in the knee – gradual onset (depends on severity)
- Swelling at the injury site
- Limited range of movement
- Bruising/tenderness/blotchy skin
- Tingling/numbness of the thigh muscles (similar to sciatica)
- Muscle spasms
- Reduced upper leg/knee strength
- Pain with direct use of the quads/knee (e.g. swimming)
Treatment for Swimmer’s Knee
If you suspect you have Swimmer’s Knee, it is important to see a physiotherapist or medical professional. You may also be referred for imaging tests to determine the location and extent of the condition, or to rule out a differential diagnosis.
Physical therapy is highly beneficial in restoring movement and reducing inflammation. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we tailor a unique treatment plan to aid in your recovery through:
- Stretching, strengthening and/or conditioning exercises
- Restoring range of movement
- Soft tissue mobilisations (massage)
- Technique correction
- Shockwave Therapy
- Dry needling
- Taping
- Ice
- A unique home exercise program
- Graded Exposure to load program
If the pain and reduced movement is severe, strenuous activity should be avoided. Your physiotherapist may also advise heat or ice application, rest and if necessary, pain medication. Additionally, they might recommend for you to use supportive braces or straps.
How to book an appointment?
If you have Swimmer’s Knee, or you’re looking for a ‘physiotherapist near me’, our physios at Vitalis Physiotherapy can assess your condition to tailor a unique rehabilitation plan to aid in your pain relief and recovery.
All you need to do is just give us a call on 0410 559 856 and request an initial appointment. Please let our friendly reception staff know the background and severity of your condition.
You can visit our FAQs for more information about appointments at Vitalis Physiotherapy.
Need Help?
Are you in pain caused by Swimmer’s Knee? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment.
Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
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