We don’t really appreciate our knees (until they start protesting with every step). Whether it’s an old injury that never quite healed, a gradual onset of osteoarthritis, or even something as seemingly innocent as poor foot posture, knee pain can make even the simplest tasks: getting out of bed, climbing stairs, or chasing after a bus can feel like an extreme sport. Let’s dive into how your knees function, what can go wrong, and how to keep them happy…
Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Wear & Tear Tale
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, and the knee is one of its favourite playgrounds. Picture your knee as a well-oiled hinge, except in OA, that oil (cartilage) starts wearing away, leaving the joint rough, stiff, and creaky like an old door in a haunted house.
Classic Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis:
- Stiffness, especially in the mornings (as if your knees need coffee, but not literally – Ayurvedically speaking, coffee heats things up and then dries them out, so it’s best to limit it)
- Pain that worsens with activity
- The struggle of getting in and out of bed, or a car, is real
- You’re desperate for a warm holiday because the cold makes the pain worse
- Difficulty walking long distances
While OA is more common as we age, it can strike younger folks too, especially after sports injuries. Women over 50 are particularly prone, and carrying extra weight doesn’t help, as it puts added strain on the knees.
How to Keep Your Knees Happy:
- Nutrition Matters: Our Osteopath Emily recommends turmeric, which is backed up by Ayurveda too! (hello, golden milk!), while modern science backs glucosamine and chondroitin (often joint as one supplement, or sold individually) for joint support.
- Keep Moving: Gentle strength and mobility work (think yoga, tai chi, or swimming) can help maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Warmth is Key: Cold aggravates stiffness, so keep your joints cosy – heat packs, warm baths, and movement are your best friends.
Knee Injuries are not Just for Athletes
Knee injuries can happen to anyone, whether you’re an athlete, or just someone who tripped over their own feet (it happens to the best of us). Common culprits include meniscus tears, ligament strains, and patellar tracking issues.
Ignoring knee pain can lead to bigger issues down the road, so early treatment is essential. Osteopathy focuses on restoring balance, mobility, and reducing strain on the knee joint by looking at how the whole body moves together.
Foot Posture & Gait Is All Connected
Your feet are the foundation of your entire body. If they’re misaligned, it can set off a chain reaction, leading to knee pain, hip discomfort, and even lower back issues. Think of it like a house: if the foundation is wobbly, the walls (your legs) and the roof (your back) are going to feel it.
How Foot Posture Affects the Knees & Hips:
Flat feet or high arches can alter knee alignment, leading to strain
Poor gait mechanics can create unnecessary torque on knee joints
Uneven weight distribution can make osteoarthritis worse
When Orthotics Can Help:
Custom orthotics can provide support, improve alignment, and reduce pressure on the knees. If you notice pain, excessive wear on your shoes, or discomfort in your knees or hips, it might be time to see an osteopath or podiatrist.
K-Taping: Extra Support for Your Knees
Kinesiology taping (K-taping) is a popular tool used to support muscles and joints without restricting movement. It’s often used by athletes, but it can also be helpful for anyone dealing with knee pain, injuries, or osteoarthritis.
How K-Taping Works:
- Provides gentle support to the knee joint, reducing strain on painful areas.
Improves circulation and lymphatic drainage, helping to reduce swelling.
Enhances proprioception (your body’s awareness of movement), which can improve stability and gait.
Encourages better alignment and movement patterns to reduce further damage.
When to Use K-Taping:
During physical activities to prevent overuse injuries.
To support weak or unstable knees post-injury.
As part of a rehabilitation plan alongside osteopathy and movement therapy.
Our Osteopath Emily using k-taping for her clients to best suit their needs. When applied correctly, K-tape can provide a lightweight, flexible layer of support that helps keep your knees moving comfortably
The Ayurvedic Perspective: Vata, Kapha & Joint Health
Ayurveda sees knee health through the lens of Sleshaka Kapha, the lubricating force that keeps our joints moving smoothly. When this diminishes, Vata takes over, leading to dryness, cracking, and stiffness (sound familiar?).
Signs of Imbalance:
Joints that “pop” or “crack”
Waking up feeling like the Tin Man from Oz
Swelling and stiffness
How to Keep Your Joints Balanced:
- Movement is Medicine: Dance, yoga, Tai Chi – just keep moving!
- Monitor Sodium Intake: Too much salt can contribute to swelling.
- Sweat it Out: Movement and light sweating help reduce excess dryness in the body.
- Lubricate from Within: Ayurveda recommends warm oils, like sesame oil massages, to nourish the joints.
Your Knees Deserve Love!
Your knees do a lot for you, so show them some love! Whether it’s strengthening exercises, Ayurvedic self-care, or a little osteopathic tune-up, small changes can make a big difference. Listen to your body, support your joints, and keep moving with ease.
Need guidance? A combination of osteopathy, Ayurvedic principles, and movement therapy can help you stay mobile and pain-free. Your knees (and hips and back) will thank you!
Reach out to us TODAY , we are here to help you get PAIN-FREE!
