Understanding Knee Pain During Squats: Insights and Solutions
At a2z Health Group, our team of skilled Physiotherapists and Exercise Physiologists understand the complexity of knee pain, especially when it comes to activities like squatting. Squatting, a fundamental movement in daily activities and various sports, can often be a source of knee discomfort for many – but why do our knees protest during such a natural movement, and what can we do to alleviate the pain?
The Anatomy of Squatting
The knee joint plays a pivotal role in our mobility, bearing the brunt of our body’s weight during squatting. This complex interaction involves ligaments, muscles, tendons, and the knee cap itself. When we squat, our knee and surrounding structures work in harmony to support this motion – however, any imbalance or weakness can lead to discomfort or pain, signalling a potential issue.
Common Culprits of Squat-Induced Knee Pain
Several factors can contribute to why individuals experience knee pain when squatting. These can range from improper squatting techniques to underlying conditions such as ACL tears, meniscus injuries, and patellar tendinopathies. At a2z Health Group, you can rest assured our team is highly adept at diagnosing these conditions, employing comprehensive assessments to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort.
The Wrong Way to Squat
Knee pain when squatting is often exacerbated by incorrect form. Knees extending far beyond the toes, improper weight distribution, or inadequate hip movement can all strain the knee joint. These technical missteps not only hinder performance, but can also lead to long-term injuries.
Preventing and Treating Knee Pain
Our approach to preventing and treating knee discomfort focuses on enhancing your squatting technique, correcting muscular imbalances, and strengthening the muscles around the knee. Our dedicated professionals use a blend of therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and personalised care plans to not only alleviate the pain, but to also prevent its recurrence.
A Tailored Path to Recovery
At a2z Health Group, we understand that everyone’s journey to overcoming knee pain is unique. Whether your knees hurt from squats due to an acute injury or a chronic condition, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Through targeted interventions and expert guidance, we aim to restore your knee’s functionality, enabling you to squat and move without pain.
In addition to addressing knee pain, it’s important to consider the holistic health of our lower body, particularly the hips. At a2z Health Group, we recognise the interconnected nature of our musculoskeletal system; as such, we explore a variety of treatments that benefit not only the knees but also surrounding areas like the hips. One such innovative approach is hydrotherapy, a therapeutic method that harnesses the power of water to heal and strengthen.
Hydrotherapy has been shown to significantly improve hip pain, offering a gentle yet effective means of rehabilitation. This method is particularly beneficial for those looking for a low-impact solution to enhance their recovery. The buoyancy, resistance, and warmth of water work together to alleviate discomfort, promote healing, and improve mobility. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or looking to improve your overall physical health, hydrotherapy can provide a comprehensive path to wellness.
Let’s Start Your Journey to Pain-Free Squatting
If you’re troubled by pain in your knee when squatting, it’s time to seek expert care – contact us at a2z Health Group to arrange a comprehensive assessment. Together, we’ll explore the causes of your knee pain and embark on a tailored course of treatment designed to enhance your health and wellness.
Michael graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from Melbourne University. Since then, he has had over 21 years of experience as a physiotherapist and is also a qualified D.M.A. Clinical Pilates Practitioner.