KNEE PAIN 

Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints we see at our Sandton practice. Whether it started during a run, after a gym session or simply walking up stairs, the underlying cause usually involves the same thing: the demands placed on the knee are exceeding what the surrounding structures can handle.

The knee doesn't work in isolation. It sits between two powerful joints, the hip and ankle, and its function depends heavily on both. Weak glutes can allow the thigh to rotate inward, changing how the kneecap tracks. Stiff ankles force the knee to compensate. Tight quads, hamstrings or the iliotibial band increase compressive and shearing forces. Even lower back and pelvic dysfunction can alter how load is distributed through the leg.

Common conditions we treat include patellofemoral pain (often called runner's knee), iliotibial band syndrome, patellar tendinopathy, meniscal irritation, ligament sprains and post-surgical rehabilitation. Many of these share overlapping contributing factors, which is why a thorough assessment of the full kinetic chain matters more than a label.

Research consistently supports exercise-based rehabilitation for knee pain. A Cochrane review of 31 trials found that combined hip and knee strengthening produces better outcomes than targeting the knee alone. A 2024 meta-analysis also showed that lumbopelvic manipulation significantly reduces knee pain when paired with exercise.

Our approach combines spinal and pelvic adjustments, knee and patella mobilisation, soft tissue therapy and a structured rehab programme built around progressive strengthening. For runners and athletes, we also review training load and movement patterns to reduce the risk of recurrence.