Understanding knee pain
Knee pain is one of the most common reasons people seek physiotherapy, whether it comes on suddenly during sport, develops gradually from overuse, or follows a surgical procedure. The knee is a complex joint that relies on ligaments, cartilage, and surrounding muscles working together - when one part is injured or imbalanced, pain and reduced function often follow.
Common causes we see
- Ligament sprains - including ACL, MCL, and other ligament injuries from sport or sudden twisting movements
- Meniscus injury - tears to the cartilage that cushions the knee joint
- Patellofemoral pain - pain around or behind the kneecap, often linked to movement patterns or muscle imbalance
- Osteoarthritis - wear-related joint pain, often affecting weight-bearing joints like the knee
- Post-surgical recovery - rehabilitation following ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair, or joint replacement
How we treat knee pain at Mi Physio
Every treatment plan starts with a thorough assessment to understand what's actually driving your knee pain - not just where it hurts, but why. From there, your physiotherapist builds a plan that may include:
- Hands-on manual therapy to reduce pain and restore movement
- A tailored exercise and strengthening programme
- Movement and biomechanics assessment, particularly for runners and sports-related knee pain
- Acupuncture or dry needling as part of a broader management plan, where appropriate
- Structured post-operative rehabilitation if you're recovering from knee surgery
When to see a physio for knee pain
You don't need to wait until knee pain becomes severe. It's worth booking an assessment if you're experiencing:
- Knee pain that hasn't improved after a few days of rest
- Swelling, instability, or a feeling that your knee might "give way"
- Pain that limits walking, stairs, or sport
- Ongoing knee pain following a previous injury or surgery
Common questions
Do I need a referral to see a physio for knee pain?
No referral is necessary. Physiotherapists are first-contact practitioners, so you can book directly for assessment and treatment.
Is knee physiotherapy covered by ACC?
If your knee pain is the result of an injury, it's likely covered by ACC. If it isn't injury-related, we're still happy to treat you privately, and can provide receipts for private insurance claims.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the cause and severity of your knee pain. Your physiotherapist will discuss an expected treatment timeline after your initial assessment.
