Did you know that for a lot of people, their knee pain is not actually due to a problem with the knee, but one with the hip? At Atlas Physical Therapy, we frequently observe that a problem originating in the hip can be first felt as knee pain and vice versa.
You might wonder how this is possible. The answer lies in what’s known as the kinetic chain, where the hip and knee joints work together. The interconnection means that an imbalance or dysfunction in one joint can lead to compensation and pain in the other. The good news is our therapists can help you figure out the source of your pain and, more importantly, guide you back to health.
To move towards a healthier, active life, we recommend you consult with one of our physical therapists as soon as possible!
Your Guide to Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Hip and Knee Pain
At Atlas Physical Therapy, we believe in a holistic approach to healing. As musculoskeletal experts, we are trained to pinpoint the root cause of your condition, differentiate between hip and knee pain, and develop a plan that addresses the whole person, not just the symptom.
The Telltale Signs of Hip Pain
- Localized Discomfort and Stiffness: Hip pain generally starts as a localized discomfort in the groin area, often accompanied by stiffness restricting the range of motion. As the severity worsens, this pain can sometimes extend to the thigh and even the knee.
- Morning Stiffness: One of the most commonly reported symptoms is morning stiffness, which typically eases as the day progresses.
- Difficulty in Performing Daily Activities: Individuals with hip pain often find it challenging to bend over to tie shoes or pick up objects from the floor. This pain can intensify during movements like getting up from a seated position or walking uphill.
Classic Indicators of Knee Pain
- Localized Pain and Swelling: A primary indicator of knee issues is localized pain, often accompanied by swelling. This can be especially noticeable after prolonged periods of activity.
- Stiffness and Reduced Range of Motion: Another hallmark of knee pain is stiffness, which often restricts the knee’s range of motion.
- Difficulty in Bearing Weight: A large number of individuals with knee pain report difficulty bearing weight on the affected knee. This is often described as a feeling of weakness or instability, making activities such as climbing stairs or even simple walking difficult.
While interconnected, the hip and knee are distinct structures with unique roles in our body’s movement and different responsibilities. Understanding these differences is vital in diagnosing and treating pain effectively. This is where the expertise of our physical therapists can help!
Navigating the Path to Recovery with Atlas Physical Therapy
At Atlas Physical Therapy, our physical therapists will conduct a comprehensive evaluation and determine whether you’re dealing with an issue in your hip, knee, or both.
After completing the evaluation, we’ll design a program focusing on the actionable steps you can take to ensure long-term relief and prevention of future injuries, including the following:
- Tailored Therapeutic Exercises: Our therapists will provide you with mobility and strengthening exercises to help restore your function. We will first attempt to do so in functional positions and through functional activities like stairs or squatting. This ensures the most direct transfer to improving your quality of life.
- Neuromuscular Re-education: Restoring and educating one’s body to perform again usually requires task-specific training that targets not only the muscles and joints but also integrates balance, coordination, and communication between the body and brain.
Our therapists go beyond the surface, digging deep into your symptoms to identify the underlying issues and determine the true origin of your pain, whether in the hip, the knee, or both. Our goal is to build a program that helps you get back to living your best life!
Follow These Simple Steps to a Pain-Free Life
Are you ready to embrace a lifestyle that promises better mobility and less pain? At Atlas Physical Therapy, we are here to guide you every step of the way, fostering a future where you feel better, move better, and live better!
Call today to schedule an appointment!
Your Success Is Our Priority!
Return to Atlas Physical Therapy and Let’s Continue Your Journey to Wellness Together. Schedule Your Appointment Now!
Don’t Let Your Benefits Go to Waste
Use Your Deductible Before the Year Ends!
Did you know your physical therapy sessions could be free or reduced if your insurance deductible has already been met? Now’s the perfect time to schedule those sessions you’ve been putting off!
Whether it’s addressing lingering pain, improving mobility, or just staying on top of your health, Atlas Physical Therapy is here to help you finish the year strong –and save money while doing it.
Call us today to check your benefits and book your appointment before the year ends!
Exercise of the Month
HEEL SLIDES LONG SIT
Start by sitting on the floor with both legs extended out in front of you and your back flat. Loop a strap around your foot on your injured leg and place a towel under your heel. Slowly pull your heel toward your butt by tugging on the strap until you have reached your max comfortable range of motion. Slowly allow your heel to slide back out until your leg is straight.
3 Sets, 10 Reps. (Materials needed: towel, belt)
Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these Sheet Pan Crispy Mashed Potatoes turn a classic side into a deliciously irresistible treat. Easy to make and perfect for any meal, they’re the ultimate comfort food everyone will love.
Enjoy This Seasonal Recipe!
Sheet Pan Crispy Mashed Potatoes
- 5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2- to 2-inch pieces
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Fit a wire rack in a sheet pan. Add the potatoes to a large pot and cover with cold water by at least 1 inch. Heavily salt the water and bring to a boil over high heat. Continue to boil until the potatoes can be easily smashed with the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes. Drain the potatoes in a colander, then shake the colander as hard as you can without losing any of the potatoes until they are roughed up and craggy. Transfer the potatoes to the prepared sheet pan and let dry for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, pour the vegetable oil onto a separate sheet pan and heat in the oven for 10 minutes. Carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven and transfer the potatoes to the hot oil (carefully, as the oil might splatter a bit). Gently mash the potatoes with the back of a spoon until they fill most of the sheet pan, then season with 1 tablespoon salt and a few grinds of pepper. Scatter the butter over top of the potatoes. Bake until the bottoms of the potatoes are turning golden brown, about 45 minutes. Toss the potatoes and continue to bake until the bottoms are golden brown and the tops are golden brown in a few places, another 50 to 55 minutes. Let cool slightly, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and sprinkle with the chives.
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How Aquatic Therapy Eases Knee and Hip Pain
Aquatic therapy offers a gentle yet effective approach to managing knee and hip pain, especially for those dealing with osteoarthritis, post-surgical recovery, or chronic discomfort. At Atlas Physical Therapy, we incorporate water-based exercises to help patients regain mobility and reduce pain.
How Aquatic Therapy Eases Joint Pain
Water’s buoyancy reduces the load on joints, allowing for movement with less pain and strain. This makes it easier to perform exercises that might be too challenging on land. Additionally, the warmth of the water increases blood flow, which can alleviate muscle tension and stiffness. Hydrostatic pressure from the water also helps decrease swelling and improve joint position awareness, enhancing balance and stability.
Benefits for Knee and Hip Pain
Clinical studies have shown that aquatic therapy can significantly reduce pain and improve function in individuals with knee and hip osteoarthritis. Moreover, aquatic therapy can be particularly beneficial during the early stages of recovery from joint surgeries, as it allows for movement without placing undue stress on healing tissues.
Why Choose Atlas Physical Therapy
At Atlas Physical Therapy, we tailor aquatic therapy programs to meet individual needs, ensuring a safe and effective rehabilitation experience. Our team of experienced therapists works closely with each patient to develop a personalized plan that promotes healing and enhances mobility. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or managing chronic pain, aquatic therapy can be a valuable component of your treatment plan.
If you’re interested in learning more about how aquatic therapy can help with knee or hip pain, visit our website or contact us to schedule a consultation.
Our Patients Get Great Results
“I had torn my meniscus and was not recovering very well on my own. After 6 weeks, Dr. Jade Austad has me stronger, pain-free, and ready for my regular activities. I couldn’t be happier with my experience with Dr. Jade and Atlas!”
— Tim T.
Refer a Friend
If you’ve experienced the outstanding care at Atlas Physical Therapy, why not share it with your friends? Referring them means giving them access to personalized treatment that can make a real difference in their health and well-being. Help them find a trusted healthcare partner—refer a friend to Atlas Physical Therapy today!
