Understanding Knee & Low Limb Disorders

Common Knee Disorders

The knee joint is a remarkable and complex structure that plays a vital role in human mobility and weight-bearing activities.

Comprising the tibio-femoral joint, which connects the thigh to the lower leg, and the patello-femoral joint between the kneecap and thigh, the knee is supported by a network of ligaments and muscles that ensure both active and passive stability.

Additionally, the knee contains two crescent-shaped cartilage discs known as the menisci, which help absorb shock and distribute weight evenly. When experiencing knee pain, it is essential to assess not only the knee joint itself but also related anatomical components such as the lower back, pelvis, hips, ankles, and feet, as they can significantly influence knee function and discomfort.

Understanding this interconnectedness is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.

Compartment Syndrome

Compartment syndrome is characterised by increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to restricted blood flow and pain. It can occur in any muscle group but is most commonly seen in the lower legs and forearms.

Symptoms include:

• Pain in a muscle, which may manifest as a burning sensation or a deep ache, worsening with movement of the affected limb.

• Swelling or a noticeable bulge in the muscle.

• Numbness, weakness, or a tingling sensation akin to pins and needles.

• Tightness and difficulty in moving the affected area.

Acute compartment syndrome can develop suddenly, often following an injury or due to excessively tight bandaging or casts. Chronic compartment syndrome typically emerges gradually, often related to exercise, and subsides with rest. Chiropractic care is generally recommended only for chronic compartment syndrome.

Plantar Fascitis

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the base of the toes.

About one in ten people will suffer from this condition, often referred to as 'jogger's heel,' although it can affect non-runners as well. While the condition generally improves over time, certain treatments can accelerate the healing process.

These treatments include rest, wearing suitable footwear, using heel pads, taking painkillers, and performing specific exercises. For more severe cases, steroid injections or other medical interventions might be necessary. Kavita possesses extensive experience in treating plantar fasciitis.

The condition is thought to arise from repeated minor injuries to the fascia, often involving inflammation, especially near where it attaches to the heel bone.

Risk factors for plantar fascia injury include prolonged standing or sudden increases in walking, running, or other standing activities, particularly for those not used to being active.

Other contributing factors include transitioning to exercise on harder surfaces, such as running on roads rather than tracks, wearing poorly cushioned or unsupported shoes, being overweight, excessive or sudden stretching of the sole, or having a tight Achilles tendon, which can limit foot and ankle flexibility. However, the precise cause of plantar fasciitis is often unknown.

Achilles Tendonitis

Overexerting the Achilles tendon may result in chronic Achilles tendinitis. The treatment regimen encompasses rest, timely initiation of gentle stretching, and fortifying exercises.

This ailment is very common and frequently managed at the St Albans Back Pain Clinic

Foot and Ankle Pain

Foot and ankle pain can frequently result from sprains, overuse injuries, osteoarthritis, and alterations in foot biomechanics. Chiropractic care can aid these conditions by realigning the joints, diminishing inflammation, and enhancing the range of motion.