Physiotherapy for Knee Pain: What to Expect
Physiotherapy is one of the most common recommendations for knee pain, whether the cause is osteoarthritis, an old injury or pain without a clear reason. Still, many people do not quite know what will happen at their first appointment, or they expect mainly massages and machines. This article explains what usually happens, what treatment often includes and how you can get the most out of it. Details differ between countries and practices, so ask your physiotherapist about anything that is unclear.
Before the first visit
- bring your documents: a referral if you need one, reports from your doctor and results of any scans,
- make a list of your medicines and of other health problems,
- wear comfortable clothes: shorts or loose trousers that you can roll up above the knee,
- bring the shoes you usually wear, because the physiotherapist may want to see how you walk in them,
- think about your goals: what would you like to be able to do again, for example climb stairs, walk to the shop or play with your grandchildren?
What happens at the first appointment
The first visit usually starts with a conversation. The physiotherapist asks when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, how it affects your daily life and what you hope to achieve. Then comes the examination: watching how you walk, stand up, climb a step or squat, measuring how far the knee bends and straightens, testing the strength of the thigh and hip muscles and checking your balance. The physiotherapist may also gently feel the area around the knee. At the end, you should get an explanation of the findings and a plan.
What treatment often includes
Exercise is usually at the center of physiotherapy for knee pain. A typical plan may include:
- exercises to strengthen the thigh, hip and calf muscles,
- exercises to improve how far the knee moves,
- balance training, which can also help to prevent falls,
- advice on how to dose activity, so that you stay active without overloading the knee,
- hands-on techniques, taping, heat or cold, depending on the physiotherapist and your situation.
Passive treatments can feel pleasant, but in most cases your own active work makes the biggest difference over time. If tape is used, our article on kinesiology tape or a knee sleeve explains the difference between the two.
Home exercises: where most progress happens
Most of the work happens between appointments. You will probably get a short program to do at home, often daily or several times a week. Ask the physiotherapist to show each exercise, to watch you do it and to give you a written or photo version. If an exercise is unclear or causes problems, mention it at the next visit instead of simply leaving it out. Our articles on knee strengthening exercises at home and gentle exercises for an inflamed knee give an idea of what such exercises can look like, but your own program should be adapted to you.
How much should it hurt?
Some discomfort during exercise can be acceptable, and your physiotherapist will explain how much is fine for you. As a general idea, mild pain that settles quickly is usually less worrying than pain that builds up from day to day. Tell your physiotherapist about sharp pain, swelling after exercise or pain that keeps getting worse, so the program can be adjusted.
How long does it take?
There is no single answer. Improvement is usually gradual, and the number of sessions depends on your knee, your goals and the health system you are in. Regular reviews help to check whether you are moving towards your goals. Be patient, but also be honest if nothing changes over time, so that the plan can be adapted or your doctor can be involved again.
Questions to ask your physiotherapist
What is the likely cause of my pain? Which exercises are most important for me? How much discomfort is acceptable? How will we measure progress? What can I do on days when the knee is worse? Some people also ask whether a knee sleeve fits into their program. A bamboo knee sleeve can give the knee warmth and a feeling of support during daily activities and exercise, and your physiotherapist can tell you whether it suits your situation.
When to contact your doctor
Contact your doctor if your knee suddenly swells a lot, becomes red and hot, locks or gives way, or if you cannot put weight on it. Our article when knee pain is serious lists more warning signs, and the article on knee osteoarthritis treatments explains how physiotherapy fits with other options.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral for physiotherapy?
It depends on the country and your health insurance. In some places you need a referral from a doctor, in others you can book directly. Ask your doctor or insurance provider.
How many physiotherapy sessions will I need?
It varies from person to person. Your physiotherapist will make a plan with you, and regular home exercises usually matter at least as much as the number of sessions.
Should physiotherapy exercises hurt?
Some discomfort can be acceptable, but sharp pain, swelling or pain that keeps increasing should be reported to your physiotherapist so the program can be adjusted.
A sleeve you will actually wear
The best sleeve is the one that does not end up in a drawer. The KeenTrove Bamboo Knee Sleeve is made for exactly that:
- soft, breathable bamboo, comfortable even in summer
- fits snugly but does not dig in behind the knee
- does not lock the knee, so you move naturally
- wear it under your clothes during the day and in bed at night
With 60 days to get your money back, you have nothing to lose.
Note: this article is for information only and does not replace an examination by a doctor. If you have circulation problems or diabetes, or have recently had knee surgery, talk to your doctor before wearing compression.
