​​​​​​​Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. At NYC Empire PT, we take a comprehensive and personalized approach to addressing knee pain through advanced physical therapy techniques designed to reduce discomfort, restore function, and prevent recurrence.

What Can Cause Knee Pain?

Knee pain can stem from various causes, including:

• Acute injuries such as ligament tears (ACL, MCL), meniscus injuries, or fractures
• Overuse injuries like patellar tendinitis, IT band syndrome, or bursitis
• Degenerative conditions including osteoarthritis and cartilage wear
• Biomechanical imbalances stemming from poor posture, spinal misalignments, or muscle weakness
• Referred pain from other areas like the hip or lower back

Identifying the root cause is key to creating an effective treatment plan.

Common Symptoms of Knee Pain

Symptoms can vary based on the underlying cause, but may include:

• Swelling or inflammation
• Stiffness or limited range of motion
• Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations
• Weakness or instability
• Pain during activity, prolonged sitting, or after rest
• Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or standing from a seated position

If left untreated, knee pain can worsen over time and lead to compensation issues elsewhere in the body.

How Physical Therapy Helps Knee Pain

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of effective knee pain treatment, offering a non-invasive and highly personalized approach to healing. At NYC Empire PT, we use physical therapy not only to alleviate pain but to restore optimal function and prevent future injury. Through a combination of manual techniques, therapeutic exercises, and corrective movement strategies, physical therapy addresses muscle imbalances, improves joint stability, and enhances mobility. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual, ensuring that the root cause of the knee pain is properly addressed. By retraining movement patterns and building strength in the muscles that support the knee, physical therapy provides lasting results without the need for medication or surgery.

Muscle Strengthening

Weak or imbalanced muscles around the knee (particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes) can contribute to poor knee mechanics and increase stress on the joint. Dr. Pan implements targeted strengthening exercises to improve joint stability, reduce strain, and support better movement patterns.

Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger points, or muscle knots, can refer pain to the knee and surrounding areas. Dr. Pan applies manual pressure and techniques to release these tight areas, reduce muscle tension, and improve circulation, helping to relieve pain and restore normal muscle function.

Spinal Adjustments

Though the knee is the focus, imbalances in the spine or pelvis can alter gait and posture, contributing to knee pain. By performing spinal adjustments, we aim to restore proper alignment and movement in the body, reducing compensatory stress on the knees.

Active Release Techniques (ART)

ART is a hands-on soft tissue therapy used to break down scar tissue, improve mobility, and release tension in muscles, tendons, and fascia. This technique is especially effective for treating overuse injuries and improving joint mechanics around the knee.

Take the First Step Toward Knee Pain Relief

Knee pain doesn’t have to control your life. With the right diagnosis and a customized physical therapy plan, you can reduce pain, improve strength and mobility, and get back to doing what you love.

Contact NYC Empire PT today to schedule your evaluation and begin your personalized recovery plan. Your path to pain-free movement starts here.