How does back pain lead to knee discomfort. What causes back pain that affects the knees. Why do spinal issues result in knee problems. How can you address back-related knee pain. What treatments are effective for back and knee issues.

The Intricate Link Between Spinal Health and Knee Pain

The human body is a complex system where different parts are interconnected in ways that may not be immediately apparent. One such connection exists between the spine and the knees. Many people experience concurrent back and knee pain, leading to the question: can spinal problems cause knee pain? The short answer is yes, but the relationship is more nuanced than a simple cause-and-effect scenario.

Spinal issues can indeed contribute to knee pain through various mechanisms. Understanding this connection is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment of both back and knee problems. Let’s delve deeper into the ways spinal health affects knee function and overall lower body mechanics.

Biomechanical Relationship: How Back Problems Affect Knee Function

The spine plays a crucial role in maintaining proper posture and supporting the body’s weight distribution. When spinal problems occur, they can disrupt this balance, leading to compensatory movements that put additional stress on the knees.

Postural Changes and Gait Alterations

Spinal issues often result in changes to one’s posture and walking pattern. For instance, a person with lower back pain might lean forward slightly or shift their weight to one side to alleviate discomfort. These subtle adjustments can significantly impact how weight is distributed through the legs and knees during movement.

• Uneven weight distribution on knees
• Altered stride length and foot placement
• Increased stress on knee ligaments and cartilage

Over time, these compensatory mechanisms can lead to increased wear and tear on the knee joints, potentially causing or exacerbating knee pain.

Muscle Imbalances and Weakness

Spinal problems often coincide with muscle imbalances in the back, hips, and legs. When certain muscle groups become weak or overactive due to back issues, it can affect the stability and alignment of the knees.

For example, weak core muscles may lead to poor pelvic stability, which in turn can cause the knees to rotate inward during activities like walking or climbing stairs. This misalignment puts additional stress on the knee joints and surrounding tissues.

Nerve Compression and Referred Pain

In some cases, spinal problems can directly cause knee pain through nerve compression or irritation. The nervous system is intricate, and pain signals can sometimes be misinterpreted or referred to different areas of the body.

Sciatica and Knee Pain

Sciatica, a condition characterized by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, is a prime example of how spinal issues can manifest as knee pain. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down each leg. When this nerve is compressed, it can cause pain that radiates along its path, sometimes extending to the knee or even the foot.

Is sciatic nerve pain always felt in the knee? Not necessarily. The pain pattern can vary from person to person, but some individuals with sciatica do experience knee discomfort as part of their symptoms.

Lumbar Radiculopathy

Lumbar radiculopathy, often referred to as a “pinched nerve” in the lower back, can also cause pain that extends to the knee. This condition occurs when a nerve root in the lumbar spine becomes compressed or irritated, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness that can be felt along the nerve’s path.

Common Spinal Conditions That May Contribute to Knee Pain

Several spinal conditions have the potential to cause or contribute to knee pain. Understanding these conditions can help in identifying the root cause of knee discomfort and guiding appropriate treatment.

1. Herniated Discs: When the soft inner core of a spinal disc protrudes through the tougher outer layer, it can put pressure on nearby nerves, potentially causing referred pain to the knees.
2. Spinal Stenosis: This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress nerves and lead to pain or weakness in the legs and knees.
3. Degenerative Disc Disease: As spinal discs wear down over time, it can alter spinal alignment and lead to compensatory movements that affect the knees.
4. Spondylolisthesis: When one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, it can cause instability in the spine and alter lower body mechanics.
5. Facet Joint Syndrome: Inflammation in the spine’s facet joints can cause pain and stiffness, leading to changes in posture and movement patterns.

Diagnosing the Spinal-Knee Pain Connection

Accurately diagnosing the relationship between spinal problems and knee pain requires a comprehensive approach. Healthcare professionals typically employ a combination of methods to determine the root cause of the pain and develop an effective treatment plan.

Physical Examination

A thorough physical examination is often the first step in diagnosing the spinal-knee pain connection. During this examination, a healthcare provider will assess:

• Range of motion in both the spine and knees
• Muscle strength and flexibility
• Posture and gait
• Neurological function, including reflexes and sensation

How do doctors determine if knee pain is related to spinal issues? They look for patterns of pain, movement limitations, and compensatory behaviors that suggest a connection between spinal problems and knee discomfort.

Imaging Studies

Various imaging techniques can be used to visualize the spine and knees, helping to identify structural abnormalities or signs of degeneration. Common imaging studies include:

• X-rays: To assess bone alignment and detect arthritic changes
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of soft tissues, including discs, ligaments, and nerves
• CT (Computed Tomography) scans: Offers detailed cross-sectional images of bony structures

These imaging studies can reveal spinal issues that may be contributing to knee pain, such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis.

Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies

In cases where nerve involvement is suspected, electrodiagnostic tests like EMG and nerve conduction studies may be performed. These tests can help identify nerve compression or irritation that may be causing referred pain to the knee.

Treatment Approaches for Spinal-Related Knee Pain

Addressing knee pain caused by spinal issues often requires a multifaceted approach that targets both the root cause in the spine and the symptoms in the knee. Treatment strategies may include a combination of conservative measures and, in some cases, more invasive interventions.

Conservative Treatment Options

Many cases of spinal-related knee pain can be effectively managed with non-invasive treatments. These may include:

• Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to improve spinal alignment, strengthen core and leg muscles, and enhance overall posture and movement patterns.
• Chiropractic Care: Spinal adjustments and manipulations to address misalignments that may be contributing to knee pain.
• Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Changes in daily activities, ergonomic improvements, and weight management to reduce stress on the spine and knees.

How effective is physical therapy for treating spinal-related knee pain? Many patients experience significant improvement with a well-designed physical therapy program that addresses both spinal and knee issues.

Advanced Interventions

In cases where conservative treatments do not provide adequate relief, more advanced interventions may be considered:

• Epidural Steroid Injections: To reduce inflammation and pain associated with nerve compression in the spine.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: A procedure that uses heat to disable nerves causing chronic pain.
• Surgical Options: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to address spinal issues that are contributing to knee pain. This could include procedures such as discectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion.

Are surgical interventions always necessary for spinal-related knee pain? No, surgery is typically considered only when conservative treatments have failed to provide adequate relief and the pain significantly impacts quality of life.

Preventive Measures and Self-Care Strategies

While not all spinal problems can be prevented, there are several steps individuals can take to maintain spinal health and reduce the risk of developing knee pain related to spinal issues.

Maintaining Good Posture

Proper posture is crucial for spinal health and can help prevent the development of compensatory movements that lead to knee pain. Tips for maintaining good posture include:

• Sitting with the back supported and feet flat on the floor
• Using ergonomic chairs and workstations
• Taking regular breaks to stand and stretch when sitting for long periods
• Being mindful of posture during daily activities and correcting it when necessary

Regular Exercise and Stretching

A consistent exercise routine that includes both strengthening and flexibility exercises can help maintain spinal health and prevent knee problems. Beneficial activities may include:

• Core strengthening exercises
• Low-impact cardio activities like swimming or cycling
• Yoga or Pilates for flexibility and body awareness
• Stretching routines targeting the back, hips, and legs

How often should one exercise to maintain spinal health and prevent knee issues? Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, combined with strength training exercises 2-3 times per week.

Proper Body Mechanics

Using correct body mechanics during daily activities can significantly reduce the risk of spinal problems and associated knee pain. Key principles include:

• Lifting with the legs, not the back
• Avoiding twisting motions while lifting
• Using assistive devices when necessary for heavy loads
• Maintaining a neutral spine position during activities

Stress Management

Chronic stress can contribute to muscle tension and poor posture, potentially exacerbating spinal problems and knee pain. Effective stress management techniques may include:

• Mindfulness meditation
• Deep breathing exercises
• Regular relaxation practices
• Engaging in enjoyable hobbies or activities

When to Seek Professional Help

While some cases of spinal-related knee pain may improve with self-care measures, it’s important to know when to consult a healthcare professional. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening pain in the back or knees
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Pain that interferes with daily activities or sleep
• Any sudden, severe pain following an injury

Should you see a spine specialist or a knee specialist for combined back and knee pain? It’s often beneficial to start with your primary care physician, who can then refer you to the appropriate specialist based on your specific symptoms and condition.

In conclusion, the connection between spinal problems and knee pain is complex and multifaceted. Understanding this relationship is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. By addressing both spinal health and knee function, individuals can often find relief from pain and improve their overall quality of life. Remember that early intervention and a comprehensive approach to treatment typically yield the best outcomes in managing spinal-related knee pain.

Sometimes it seems like when one thing in your body hurts, something else always goes along with it. Read on about the link between back pain and knee pain.

It always feels like if it’s not one thing hurting, it’s another. Even more frustrating, pain always seems to occur in more than one body part at once. But is there a link?

Can back problems cause knee pain?

In a word: yes. But it gets more complicated than that. The line from back pain to knee pain may not always seem easy to draw. Can back injury cause knee pain? Can a pinched nerve in your back cause knee pain? Can lower back pain cause hip and knee pain? The answer to all these questions is yes. But how?

How can a bad back cause knee pain?

So why can back issues cause knee pain? At first glance, they’re not related. Your back isn’t connected directly to your knees, after all.

A large part of the relationship between your back and your knees is how you hold yourself (posture) and how you walk. Everything from low back pain to tension in your shoulders can affect how you stand and walk. For example, If you’re trying to compensate for a herniated disc or chronic pain in your spine, you’ll start to walk differently in an attempt to relieve the pain. This is a common cause of joint pain in your knees, as you put more pressure on the ligaments and meniscus there. Additionally, even if you aren’t experiencing pain in your back, you may have problems with tightness or flexibility in your neck, back, hips, or upper legs, with all can contribute to posture problems and gait problems. Without the support usually offered by your back and spine when it is strong, with optimal flexibility and posture, your knees are left to do all the work. Unfortunately, that’s not what they’re made for.

When both are perfectly healthy, your back and knees work together to help you move. Your knee joint allows you range of motion. Your back helps keep you stable and absorbs some of the shock from your movements. When both are pain-free, and moving healthily, they support each other so they can both do their jobs easily.

However, leg pain or back pain puts the entire system out of balance. Without pain relief or pain management, you will automatically try to cope by using the parts of your body that DON’T hurt. When your knee is forced to do your back’s job, it can quickly get overloaded from the extra pressure or strange new angle you use when you walk.

What’s causing your back pain (that’s causing your knee pain)?

There are plenty of possible causes for a hurt back. Overuse, especially without proper stretching, can strain your back. Or you may UNDER use your back. If you have a job where you sit all day, your back muscles and buttox muscles may be weak, and not provide proper support to your spinal cord. Poor posture can put a lot of pressure on the lumbar spine (or lower spine).

You may also have a medical condition that causes pain, like spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spaces in your spine). Sciatica pain is a fairly common cause for back and knee problems. You may have chronic pain from something like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Without management, the pain can start affecting your knees, hips, and ankles.

A back injury may be one of the more concerning causes of back pain. Any injury to your back or spinal cord could cause some serious damage. If you’ve had a recent back or spine injury, make sure to talk to your doctor as soon as possible.

What to do if your back is causing pain in your knees

If your back can cause knee pain, it’s obvious that helping fix your back pain is a necessary part of your treatment plan. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to address back pain.

Speak with your medical provider about evaluation and referral to a physical therapist. A physical therapist can help you with strengthening exercises. Specifically targeting problematic weak areas, or areas that are not as flexible as they should, the physical therapist will help stabilize and strengthen your spine to improve your pain. Physical therapy exercises help strengthen your back, abdominal, and lower body muscles to prevent future damage. It can help you build proper posture and support for your back, so you don’t return to the same problems. Some people choose to visit a chiropractor. Chiropractors have helped many people with problems related to the spine through spinal adjustments (‘cracking your back’). However, in some injuries or cases this treatment is not recommended, and chiropractic treatments also have risks. Consult with a Babylon healthcare provider for more information.

Over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers can help you manage chronic pain or pain from an injury. These include tylenol, ibuprofen, aleve, and naproxen. Prescription strength ones are also available. You can pair them with heating pads, especially for stiff backs from arthritis, or ice packs, for swelling and inflammation from injuries. There are also some topical ointments available over-the-counter for back pain.

Orthopedic shoe inserts are useful for helping correct your gait. They can also provide some of the shock absorption usually done by your back. This can lessen the pressure on your knee and hip joints, when they don’t have to take up as much slack. It is best to seek orthotic fittings from a professional service who specializes in customizing the fit and mold to your health needs. Some orthotics are covered by insurance if your health care provider refers you for them.

If the nerve root in your lower back is inflamed, your physician may recommend steroid injections. This is usually only used after other methods have been tried. In extreme cases, you may need corrective surgery, but other treatment plans are likely to be recommended first.

Seek medical advice from a healthcare professional if your back pain gets in the way of your daily life or spreads into your legs below the knee. It’s also important to seek help after a traumatic back injury (like a car crash or fall), as you may need x-rays or imaging to determine the amount of damage.

FAQs

Can lower back pain cause knee pain?

Yes. In fact, lower back pain is very likely to change your gait or make you compensate with your knees. In addition, the nerve root that sends feeling to your legs is located in your lower back. If there’s any swelling in your spine, or anything (such as a herniated disk) is pressing on that nerve, you could feel sharp, shooting pain radiating down into your legs and knees.

Can sciatica cause knee pain?

Yes. The sciatic nerve, which is one of the spinal nerves, connects from your low back, through your leg into your knee. Sciatica feels like a shooting pain running from your lower back, down your leg, and can contribute to knee pain. It usually has some other root cause, like nerve degeneration or an injury.

Can arthritic knees, a knee injury, or a knee replacement cause back pain?

Yes, the transfer works both ways. A dislocated kneecap, torn ACL, or arthritic knee can all change the way you walk. Your back may have to pick up some of the slack for your knees, putting strain there.

Can tight hamstrings cause back of knee pain?

Yes. When your hamstrings are tight or weak, it can cause you to destabilize back and hip muscles. It puts pressure on your back and knees and can even change the way your spine curves. All of this puts pressure on your knees and back to make up for the stability and motion.

Can back pain cause knee and hip pain?

Yes. Not only can pain in your back cause pain in your knees, the pain can also spread to your hips or even your ankles. Whatever parts of your body you use to move, you can strain by changing the way you walk.

Can back pain cause knee swelling?

Yes. The knees can become inflamed from pressure or pain which causes swelling of the joints The extra pressure may also make existing conditions, like osteoarthritis, worse. You can use ice or OTC medication like ibuprofen or ibuprofen to help reduce the swelling.

Can knee surgery cause back pain?

Some knee surgery can cause back pain, especially if you limp during your recovery. As you recover and have less pain in your knee, you should also be able to reduce the pain in your back.

Consult a doctor if your back and knee pain don’t go away as you begin to heal.

Can knock knees cause back pain?

Knock knees happen when your knee joints press together inward while your ankles are spread apart. Because of the odd angle and misalignment, knock knees can cause knee, hip, and back pain. It can be corrected with surgery and/or physical therapy. Treatment often helps get rid of the pain.

Can total knee replacement cause back pain?

Total knee replacement can cause some back pain, especially as you learn to walk and move differently with your new knee. However, it’s likely to get rid of some of your pre-surgery back pain over time. It’s likely that the pain from your bad knee caused you to move in a way that was bad for your back. With a new, and hopefully pain-free, knee in place, you should be able to move more naturally and relieve pressure on your back.

Sources

• The Link Between Your Back and Knee Pain – Advanced Bone and Joint
• Does Sciatica Cause Knee Pain – Veritas Health
• Back Pain – University of Washington Health
• Ask the Expert: Dr. Austin Fragomen, Orthopedic Surgeon, Answers Your Questions on Knock-Knees – Hospital for Special Surgery
• Back Disorders and Knee Pain – Very Well Health

3 Signs That Your Knee Pain May Be Originating in the Back

3 Signs That Your Knee Pain May Be Originating in the Back

This content was medically reviewed by Baher S. Yanni, MD, on January 14th, 2021.

When your knee aches, you undoubtedly start to wonder what could have caused it. Did you take a wrong step or twist your knee in an unusual way? Both of these scenarios are possible, but there might be another culprit. If you struggle with knee pain, back issues could be to blame.

Signs Your Knee Pain Is Related to Your Back 

If your knee pain isn’t the result of a traumatic injury, there’s a strong possibility that this pain may originate in your back. Here are three signs that your knee pain is a symptom of back problems.

1. Knee Pain Occurs With Back Pain

The most obvious signal that your knee pain originates with back issues would be if you struggle with knee and back pain simultaneously. Unfortunately, that’s not true for everyone. Sometimes, pain in your back or knee is intermittent. Or maybe you’ve never been bothered by both at the same time.

2. You Experience Sciatic Nerve Inflammation Symptoms

Can sciatica cause pain in your knee? Yes. Your sciatic nerve is actually five separate nerves that pass through your spine, into your buttocks, and then travel down the back of each leg through your knee. Because the sciatic nerve is responsible for sensory and motor functions, it’s unsurprising that sciatic issues can lead to pain anywhere along its neural pathway — including the knees.

Sciatic nerve pain can cause a variety of other symptoms as well, including:

• Muscle tightness in the hamstrings, quadriceps or hips.
• Muscle spasms in your back or legs.
• A burning sensation in the back of your legs.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control.

3. Bunion Formation

This sign may seem odd, but the same back issue causing your knee pain may also impact the way you walk, run and stand. The spinal nerves that support your knee also assist the inside and outside of your foot. When those nerves become stressed or injured, it can lead to an unnatural tilting of the big toe joint. This joint pressure can lead to bunions. So, if you have knee pain plus bunions, back issues may actually be the source.

Preventative Care for Knee Pain 

If you suspect that your knee pain may originate in your back, you can take a few at-home preventative care measures that may help relieve your symptoms:

• Avoid prolonged sitting.
• Try to maintain a healthy weight.
• Engage in specialized exercises, stretches and yoga designed to relieve back pressure.
• Take over-the-counter medications like NSAIDs to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Alternate between using heating pads and ice packs for 20 minutes at a time.
• Wear comfortable, supportive shoes.

Find Relief at Spine INA

Can a back injury cause knee pain? Yes — these issues may be related. Whether you’re struggling with constant knee pain or both your back and your knees are causing you discomfort, we are here for you. The compassionate team at Spine INA will take the time to find out what’s causing your symptoms so that we can relieve your pain and revive your life.

Don’t live with pain one day longer than you have to. Contact us today to learn how we can help you.

Schedule a consult

Knee pain | causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention

Most people experience knee pain quite often, which can be sharp and aching, burning and throbbing. Widespread pain can occur by limiting the range of motion of a joint, at rest, or during physical activity. Instead of going to a doctor for medical help, many try to treat the painful manifestations on their own. Pain medications, such as ointments, gels or tablets, which belong to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are used as symptomatic therapy, since they only temporarily eliminate the pronounced pain syndrome that affects the knee joints.

The causes of severe pain can be hidden in the occurrence of disorders, not only in the knee joint, but also in the spine, as well as other parts of the body. An effective treatment strategy for eliminating joint pain can be developed after establishing the exact cause of the appearance. To improve well-being, in order to avoid the development of complications, it is necessary to undergo a number of diagnostic procedures and get advice from various specialists.

Content

• Causes
• Osteoarthritis of the knee or gonarthrosis
• Diseases of the spine and asymmetry of the pelvic bones as a cause of pain in the knee
• Foot and ankle pathologies
• Diagnostics
• Treatment
• Medical therapy
• Plasmolifting
• Physiotherapy
• LFK
• Manual therapy

Causes

Rheumatoid discomfort when bending the knee is accompanied by various diseases, from arthrosis of the knee joints to pathologies of the pelvic bones of the sacral spine. The causes of discomfort and severe pain in the knees are chondropathy, arthritis, neuritis and other diseases.

Injuries, bruises, dislocations, torn ligaments, meniscal injuries or intra-articular fractures cause pain that occurs at the time of impact, fall or other factors. In these cases, for treatment, you need to contact a traumatologist.

Thus, pain in the knee as a sign of disease affects the structures of the knee: cartilage, bone or soft tissue, affecting its innervating nerve. The main reasons for the appearance

Arthrosis of the knee joints or gonarthrosis

In case of arthrosis , osteoarthritis of the joint or gonarthrosis – degenerative-dystrophic processes occur in the cartilage of the joint, due to metabolic disorders, the effects of trauma and the appearance knee pain. Gonarthrosis is diagnosed in middle-aged and elderly people, athletes and people engaged in heavy physical labor.

This disease, having a chronic course, tends to progress and eventually lead to limited joint mobility and impaired support function, most often of both limbs. Initially, the pain in the knee is dull, aching, pulling, appearing during movements, accompanied by a crunch in the knee, especially while climbing stairs. If untreated, the cartilage in the knee joints continues to wear out, increasing pain even at rest. Further destruction of the joint aggravates the situation, as it can cause disability.

A typical feature of osteoarthritis of the knee is initial pain, to eliminate which patients should “disperse” for 15-30 minutes in order to improve their condition.

Gonarthrosis is often complicated by the addition of inflammatory autoimmune processes, from the side, of the synovial bag, ligaments and tendons, which sometimes leads to an increase in pain, the acquisition of a bursting character, swelling of soft tissues and an increase in temperature.

Diseases of the spine and asymmetry of the pelvic bones as a cause of knee pain

At first glance, there is no connection between the lumbar spine and the knees. But in reality, they have a close relationship with the help of the sciatic nerve (nervus ischiadicus). The main nerve of the leg originates in the spine and is formed through the holes in the vertebrae by the fibers of the nerves of the spinal cord, which are combined into a nerve plexus at the level of the sacrum. The sciatic nerve is responsible for its sensory (sensitive) and motor (motor) functions, runs along the back of the leg, innervates the knee and provokes the appearance of pain in the knee.

Most often this is due to the development of:

• Osteochondrosis, protrusions and intervertebral hernias due to degenerative-dystrophic changes in the intervertebral discs as a result of a decrease in the height of the disc and its dehydration, a decrease in elasticity and an increased risk of rupture under load. The vertebrae approaching each other lead to compression of the nerve roots. In the lumbar region, compression of the sciatic nerve fibers and the appearance of pain in the knee are possible. But more often this symptom occurs when osteochondrosis is complicated by the formation of protrusion (protrusion) of the intervertebral disc or its hernia (rupture of the outer shell of the disc), which can provoke the appearance of neurological complications, including knee pain.
• Spondylosis – a disease that is chronic and develops most often against the background of osteochondrosis. With it, there is an overgrowth of the vertebral bodies, which are adjacent to the intervertebral discs, and the formation of bone protrusions – osteophytes. In severe cases, adjacent vertebrae fuse, leading to immobilization and compression of the nerves passing through them.
• Spondylolisthesis – pathology of the spine, in which the overlying vertebra is displaced in relation to the one located below. most often the lumbar region is affected, leading to infringement of the sciatic nerve.

Signs of the development of pain in the knee due to the presence of pathologies in the lumbar spine, additional symptoms may be:

• drawing, aching, acute pain in the lower back;
• muscle tension, hamstrings, quadriceps femoris, which occupies the anterior and partially outer side of the thigh;
• pain and stiffness in thighs;
• diffuse pain in the legs;
• pain in upper thighs.

The nature and extent of symptoms depend on the individual characteristics of the organism and the degree of nerve compression.

Symptoms of the sciatic nerve can be observed in one limb or both at once:

1. pain in the knees, hips and lower back;
2. spasms of the muscles of the back and legs;
3. burning in back of leg;
4. loss of bladder and bowel control.

In violation of the functions of the sciatic nerve in the knees, there is often a feeling of instability and constriction.

The asymmetry of the sacrum and pelvic bones also provokes the appearance of pain in the knee joint against the background of congenital features as a result of different lengths of the lower extremities and curvature of the pelvis, including due to scoliosis. This leads to arthrosis against the background of overload due to the rapid wear of the cartilage of the knee joint of one of the legs.

The muscles of the hamstring are overloaded due to the weakening of the abdominal muscles, which are responsible for the stability of the pelvic bones and are attached to the pubic bone. The presence of excess weight, a sedentary lifestyle can cause overload, swelling and swelling of the knee joint.

Foot and ankle pathologies

As well as knee joints, ankle joints can be affected by arthrosis, which is often diagnosed in athletes, especially, gymnasts, ballet dancers, as well as in elderly people. Violation of the biomechanics of movements increases the load on the knees and contributes to pain not only in the knee, but also in the ankle, affecting gait and rapid wear of the joint.

Orthopedic pathologies of the foot, for example,
flat feet, which begins to form in childhood, and only worsens in adulthood.

Valgus deformity, in which, due to a violation of the axis of the ankle joint, the foot collapses inward.

Diagnosis

Seek medical attention if you experience knee pain. Under the action of traumatic factors, it is worth contacting an orthopedist-traumatologist. In other cases, first make an appointment with a therapist.
The doctor will assess the patient’s condition, collect an anamnesis and prescribe clinical tests and diagnostic procedures to establish a preliminary diagnosis and refer the patient to a specialist.

If pain is present in the lower back, with diffuse pain in the leg along the back surface when walking, you can immediately contact a neurologist. If, in addition to pain in the knee, the patient is concerned about pain in the ankle joints and changes in the condition of the feet, then it is better to sign up immediately with an orthopedist.

The doctor will evaluate the nature of the complaints in detail and refer the patient for an examination, which may include:

arthroscopy – an invasive method for the diagnosis and treatment of arthrosis and traumatic injuries of the ligaments, menisci.

Treatment

Many diseases are manifested by pain in the knee, so there is no single treatment strategy, in each case it is developed individually based on the nature of the pathology, severity, presence of features, age of the patient.

In case of knee pain due to spinal pathology, treatment is prescribed by a neurologist. If knee pain is a consequence of arthrosis, gout, bursitis, osteoarthritis or other pathologies of the feet, knee and ankle joints, then the treatment is carried out under the supervision of an orthopedist.

When diagnosing pathologies of the spine or pelvic bones, patients may additionally be advised to consult an endocrinologist to solve the problem of excess weight.

Patients with pathologies of the spine, orthopedic diseases are shown complex treatment, which includes:

• drug therapy;
• physiotherapy;
• exercise therapy;
• manual therapy;
• plasmolifting – with arthrosis of the knee joints of 2-3 degrees.

Drug therapy

Drug treatment includes both symptomatic and etiotropic therapy. Symptomatic is aimed at quickly improving the patient’s well-being, eliminating pain in the knee and other existing symptoms. The goal of therapy is to influence the cause of the disorders in order to normalize the condition in the long term.

Patients are prescribed a complex of drugs:

NSAIDs are symptomatic therapy drugs that have an anti-inflammatory effect, allowing you to quickly stop pain in the knee, lower back, and feet.

Corticosteroids – drugs with anti-inflammatory action are injected into the joint cavity, using short courses.

Chondroprotectors – means for regeneration of cartilage tissue in long courses, at least 2-3 months.

Muscle relaxants – drugs for spasms of the muscles of the back and hips.

Vitamin complexes – drugs to improve metabolic processes.

Plasmolifting

Plasmolifting – injections from the patient’s own blood plasma are injected directly into the knee joint or the connective tissue around it. Due to saturation with platelets, cytokines and growth factors, blood plasma contributes to:

• stimulation of regeneration processes;
• restoration of synovial fluid;
• activation of blood circulation and nutrition of the cartilage of the joint;
• elimination of significant inflammation;
• pain relief;
• restoration of movement in the affected joint;
• to reduce the duration of treatment by 2-3 times.

Plasmolifting or PRP therapy complements the treatment of arthrosis in the patella. It is also used in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the spine and injuries, complementing drug therapy, physiotherapy, exercise therapy and other methods of treatment. Otherwise, surgical methods are prescribed.

Physiotherapy

Various types of physiotherapy treatments are used to improve the effectiveness of treatments and diseases of the musculoskeletal system that cause knee pain. Physiotherapy for influencing the area of ​​influence is prescribed in courses of 7-15 procedures, which are selected individually:

• magnetotherapy;
• ultrasound therapy;
• UHF;
• phonophoresis;
• electrophoresis;
• SMT therapy or amplipulse therapy;
• vibration massage.

exercise therapy

An important role is played by physiotherapy exercises in the treatment of pathologies of the joints of any localization, in particular, the spine. Exercise therapy allows you to increase the range of motion, stimulate blood circulation and nutrition of the knee joints, contributing to their regeneration.

It is important to choose a set of exercises that will not cause harm and will be most useful, for example, stretching exercises for spinal pathologies or exercises to strengthen the musculoskeletal system in order to reduce the load on the affected joints and create favorable conditions for their recovery.

Physical therapy classes are available for all ages, as the program, compiled individually, provides a load, has a positive effect on diseased joints without harm to health. To master the technique, it is worth conducting the first exercise therapy classes under the supervision of an instructor.

In the future, physical therapy exercises should be done at home every day for 20-30 minutes, avoiding excessive loads and sudden movements, so as not to provoke pain in the knee and deterioration.

Manual therapy

Manual therapy plays a key role in the correction of pelvic asymmetries and the treatment of diseases of the spine, working out the muscles of the back, ligaments and joints of the spine, pelvic region with hands. Receptions and techniques of manual influence are selected by a specialist depending on the type and severity of the pathology.

Thanks to the sessions of manual therapy, which are carried out in courses, it is possible to:

1. eliminate back pain by relieving pressure in the nerve fibers;
2. improve the nutrition of the spine due to the activation of blood circulation;
3. increase spinal mobility;
4. improve posture;
5. correct severe spinal deformities;
6. restore the normal position of the pelvic bones and internal organs for their normal functioning.

The most important benefit of manual therapy for patients who present with knee pain is to relieve sciatic nerve compression to improve the condition and eliminate pain and neurological impairment.

Patients notice the first positive changes after the first session. Further procedures contribute to stabilization for a long time. The first procedures are carried out only after the removal of inflammation with the help of medicines, physiotherapy.

Thus, pain in the knee indicates not only the defeat, but also the occurrence of problems in the parts of the musculoskeletal system, in particular the spine and feet. Therefore, if discomfort appears in the knees of one or both legs, you should consult a doctor: an orthopedist or a neurologist. Timely treatment at an early stage of development will allow you to get rid of pathological changes and restore completely normal functioning of the knee joint, ensuring freedom of movement for many years.

Author of the article:

Types of pain in osteochondrosis and methods of their treatment

Author: Osteopathic doctor Yarukhin IN.
Publication date: March 9, 2021
Updated: June 16, 2023
Reading time: 2 min.
Views: 31975

Contents of the article

Regardless of the localization of pain in osteochondrosis of the spine, they cause discomfort and reduce the patient’s quality of life. Consider how the disease proceeds, as well as what preventive and treatment measures modern medicine uses.

Thoracic region: what are the symptoms of osteochondrosis?

Patients feel girdle pain that radiates to the shoulders, under the shoulder blades, making it difficult to breathe normally. Sometimes the left side is more affected, then the person feels pain that resembles a heart attack. A characteristic sign of thoracic osteochondrosis is numbness of the hands, pain in the chest, abdomen and back.

If nerve endings are pinched during thoracic osteochondrosis, the patient has the following symptoms:

• pain in the lungs and heart;
• shortness of breath;
• fatigue;
• stiffness of movement;
• pain when laughing, coughing, sneezing;
• inability to stay in a static position for a long time;
• difficulty moving the body;
• muscle spasms.

Osteochondrosis of the lumbar region

In case of osteochondrosis of the lumbar region, the back aches, joints ache, fingers and toes become numb. With any activity, the pain syndrome can increase, if movement is limited, then the patient develops muscle stiffness.
There are many nerve endings in the lumbar region, so the course of lumbar osteochondrosis is often acute and flows into chronic. A strong pain syndrome is called lumbago – it is difficult for the patient to take one position, it is difficult to breathe, pain in the lower back is sharp and sharp, burning and numbness are often felt. The pain may radiate to the sacrum, buttock or leg.

Osteochondrosis of the cervical region

Pressing and dull types of pain in osteochondrosis of the spine in the cervical region predominate, an acute pulsation may appear in the crown, temples and at the back of the head. Often patients suffer from migraines, complain of fluctuations in blood pressure.

Characteristic symptoms that appear due to insufficient saturation of the brain with oxygen:

• nausea;
• goosebumps;
• sound sensitivity;
• eye pain;
• noise and ringing in the ears;
• disorientation in space;
• decreased sensation in the shoulder, shoulder blade and collarbone.

How to alleviate the condition of osteochondrosis – treatment and prevention

How is pain treated in osteochondrosis? There are many methods and the treatment regimen is chosen by the doctor, taking into account the localization of the inflammatory process and the individual condition of the patient.

Main tasks:

• relieve pain;
• restore mobility of intervertebral discs;
• restore the patient’s ability to move normally and painlessly.

The following methods of treatment are most often used:

• taking medications that reduce pain and inflammation;
• blockade on the area affected by osteochondrosis;
• physiotherapeutic procedures;
• manual therapy and physical therapy.