Knee injuries can be painful and debilitating, but using these tips can contribute to a speedy recovery and complement your Phoenix physical therapy. If you’re experiencing intense pain, swelling, or limited movement in your knee, the first thing you should do is see a doctor to get a diagnosis and plan for knee treatment in Phoenix. If the injury is minor and doesn’t require surgery, consider these recommendations to accelerate the healing process and get you back in action:
- Use the “R.I.C.E.” treatment.
- Rest: Try to avoid putting pressure on your knees by staying off your feet or using crutches.
- Ice: Use ice every 3 to 4 hours for about 20 minutes to reduce pain and swelling.
- Compression: Wrap a compression bandage around your knee to control inflammation.
- Elevation: Put your leg up on a pillow while sitting or lying down to redistribute excess fluid.
2. Wear a knee brace for stabilization and protection from further injury.
3. Use anti-inflammatory medicine occasionally to decrease swelling and discomfort.
4. See a physical therapist for help strengthening your muscles and regaining movement.
If your injury is more severe, such as an ACL or PCL tear, it may require surgery. In those cases, there are two common routes that people take to heal:
- See a knee specialist for a consultation on reconstructive surgery. This surgery involves replacing torn ligaments with ligaments from other parts of the body or a cadaver. Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the injury, but eventually, most people can gradually return to exercising within a few months.
- Get Phoenix physical therapy. In most cases, it’s possible to strengthen the knee with therapy exercises and braces. However, you will likely experience ongoing weakness and be unable to perform to the level that you did before the injury.
Whether your knee pain is mild or severe, pursuing treatment as soon as possible ensures the best recovery. If you would like more tips on how to heal these injuries or need help getting knee pain treatment in Phoenix, contact Foothills Sports Medicine today. Our experienced and professional physical therapists can develop a treatment plan that’s right for your body and get you back on your feet!
Photo by: Scott Thieman
