Knee Pain

Knee ligament sprains
Meniscus injuries
Patella dislocation / subluxation
Patellofemoral pain (PFP)
ACL tear & reconstruction

Knee Ligament Sprains

There are four ligaments in the knee: anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL). These ligaments, alongside active muscle engagement, stabilise the knee and limit excessive ranges of motion.

High torsional force through the knee joint may stretch or rupture these ligaments. Symptoms usually include swelling (immediate or delayed), bruising, pain and reduced ability to weight bear.

In severe cases, surgeons may recommend ligament repair, followed by an extensive rehab programme to assist you in your return to sport. However, physiotherapy alone can often manage most of these injuries. This will include manual therapy, but mainly focus on a structured exercise programme to help you achieve your goals.

Knee Meniscus Injuries

The knee has two moon shaped cartilaginous structures residing between the shinbone (tibia) and the thigh bone (femur). These structures are called the menisci. The menisci help to cushion the knee and act as shock absorbers.

Twisting activities where the foot is fixed pose a risk for injury, especially during sport.

Symptoms may include pain, minimal swelling, locking, clicking, and difficulty weight bearing. Physiotherapy can often treat meniscal injuries through soft tissue work, joint mobilisation, and functional strengthening. In severe cases, further investigation or surgery might be necessary, and your physiotherapist will guide you accordingly.

Patella Dislocation/Subluxation

The Patella is the kneecap. It sits in a bony groove of the thigh bone (femur) and within the quadriceps’ tendon. This makes the patella highly mobile within the joint and at risk of dislocation (abnormal separation of the joint) or subluxation (partial dislocation).

Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and a sense of instability. In most cases, once the joint is relocated, management with ice, taping, bracing, and structured exercise is effective. For severe or recurrent cases, surgery may be needed. Therefore, early treatment is highly recommended and your sports physiotherapist is well-equipped to support you.

Patellofemoral Pain

PFP causes pain at the front of the knee, often around or behind the patella. It typically occurs during squatting, running, jumping or stair use. These symptoms can interfere with work or sport and affect individuals of all ages. PFP accounts for 25–40% of knee cases at sports injury clinics. Research also shows that up to one-third of adolescents report experiencing PFP.

Treatment focuses on strengthening the quads and glutes with correct technique and control. Short-term relief can come from ice, taping, or orthotics. Your physiotherapist can guide you on a complete management plan.

ACL tears and reconstructions

Tears often happen during sudden direction changes or deceleration movements; for example, netball, football, and downhill skiing are frequent culprits.

Depending on severity, symptoms may include a ‘popping’ sound, rapid swelling, and a feeling of instability. Additionally, you may struggle with bending, straightening, or bearing weight.

Regardless of whether you require surgery or not, ACL rehab must be highly specific. Therefore, your physiotherapist will offer a personalised plan that includes education, structured exercise, and progress monitoring.

In cases where surgery is required, your physiotherapist will coordinate directly with your surgeon. Moreover, they will follow an evidence-based protocol to support your return to sport.

Please see this link for more information regarding this guide:

https://www.melbournehipandknee.com.au/pdf/acl-guide-melbourne-hip-and-knee.pdf

Prepatellar Bursitis

Prepatellar bursitis, or ‘housemaid’s knee’, involves inflammation of the bursa between the skin and the patella. This condition often results from repeated compression or tension. Symptoms include pain, swelling, warmth, and reduced joint movement.

Physiotherapy treatment focuses on managing swelling, offloading the joint (through taping or soft tissue techniques), and activity modifications. Your physiotherapist will design a gradual rehab plan to restore pain-free function.