THE OUTCOME FOR THIS CONDITION IS GENERALLY VERY POSITIVE WITH THE CORRECT TREATMENT.

It is estimated that 90% of sufferers are pain-free within 6 weeks of commencing a physiotherapy rehabilitation program. The following steps will help.

• Pain relief. Initially rest from provocative activities is recommended, with the use of ice advised for any obvious swelling following a strenuous bout of activity which has aggravated the pain.

• Range of motion and muscle length. Your physiotherapist will assess whether you have a limited range of motion in your knee, hip or ankle joints and address this if any of them appear to be contributing to the problem. This can be done through passive or active stretching, soft tissue massage, use of foam rollers and other methods.

• Strength and control. It is important to address the cause(s) of the issue. If it is suspected that weakness of the VMO (as discussed above) is to blame, then a graded strengthening program will be implemented. This generally begins with fairly simple exercises in non or partial-weight bearing positions, progressing into more strenuous exercises as strength is built up.

A hip strengthening program may also be implemented, which largely involves

strengthening of the gluteal muscles responsible for hip control.

• Correcting poor technique. You may have developed poor habits as result of experiencing knee pain. This may include a modified walking pattern, squatting technique or jumping method. This can also be addressed by retraining these activities.

• Specific activities. Finally, the elements which are important to an individual’s usual physical activity can be addressed. An elite athlete will need to make sure that their speed, power, proprioception and agility are at an optimal level before returning to competition. Even those who do not compete at an elite level will likely have certain hobbies or exercise routines they may need help returning to safely.

• Other treatment modalities. The use of ultrasound, heat packs, electrical stimulation, including SCENAR therapy, soft tissue massage and others may be necessary to speed up or aid in the recovery process. Your physiotherapist can advise what is most appropriate for you.

In the next issue of Great Health GuideTM, we will review ankle sprains and Achilles tendon injuries.

Margarita Gurevich BPhty, is Senior Physiotherapist at Health Point Physiotherapy with a Diploma of SCENAR Therapy in Moscow SCENAR Centre. Margarita extensively uses Clinical Pilates, SCENAR therapy and other evidence-based techniques in women’s health.