Knee pain

What is it?

Knee pain is one of the most common complaints among both active and sedentary individuals. It can occur while walking, running, climbing stairs, squatting, or even at rest.

Although it is often associated with the menisci, ligaments, or joint wear and tear, in many cases the origin lies in biomechanical dysfunctions, overload, or the way the knee interacts with the hip, ankle, and nervous system.

Most common symptoms

• Pain in the anterior, lateral, or posterior aspect of the knee.

• Discomfort when climbing or descending stairs.

• Pain when running, jumping, or squatting.

• Stiffness or a catching/locking sensation.

• Instability or a feeling of the knee "giving way."

• Swelling or a feeling of congestion and overload.

• Clicking, popping, or mechanical discomfort.

• Tension around the patella.

Why does it occur?

The knee functions as a joint that transmits forces between the hip and the foot. When any of these structures fail to function correctly, the knee may compensate and become overloaded.

The most common contributing factors include:

• Deficits in hip or gluteal motor control.

• Altered foot mechanics (gait/foot strike).

• Sports-related or repetitive overuse.

• Restricted mobility in the ankle or hip.

• Muscle weakness.

• Inadequate rehabilitation following a previous injury.

• Increased sensitivity of the nervous system.

The importance of biomechanics

Knee pain does not always originate within the joint itself. Restricted mobility in the ankle, instability in the hip, or poor gluteal activation can alter load distribution and predispose the knee to pain.

Additionally, muscles such as the popliteus, located at the back of the knee, can be a major source of discomfort and instability when overloaded or dysfunctional.

Therapeutic approach

Treatment is tailored to each patient's individual needs and may combine various techniques to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence:

• Manual therapy.

• Myofascial release.

• Dry needling.

• Neuromodulation.

• Percutaneous Electrolysis Therapy (EPTE).

• Therapeutic exercise.

• Gluteal strengthening and hip control training.

• Targeted rehabilitation of the popliteus muscle and the posterior chain.

• Load management and functional restoration.

Treatment goals

• Reduce pain.

• Restore mobility and stability.

• Improve movement control.

• Correct biomechanical compensations.

• Facilitate a safe return to daily activities and sports.

• Reduce the risk of recurrence.