Prevent Knee Injuries With Chiropractic
Many researchers believe the knee is the most complex joint in the human body. It is also the most imperfect and easily injured. The good news is that chiropractic adjustments can help solve these injuries.
The 3 Most Common Knee Injuries
ACL, MCL and Meniscus
According to researchers, the three most common knee injuries occur at the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and meniscus. "The ACL is located inside the knee joint and stabalizes the joint by preventing the shin-bone (tibia) from sliding forward beneath the thighbone (femur). A hard twist or excessive pressure on the ACL can tear it, so that the knee gives out and can no longer support the body."
The MCL, located inside the knee, is another crucial knee stabilizer. MCL injuries often occur along side injuries to the ACL.
The meniscus, "is a wedge-like rubbery cushion where the major bones of your leg connect," and "helps the knee joint to carry weight, glide and turn in many directions. It also keeps your femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone) from grinding against each other" (Sports Med 2006; 36:635-41).
ACL, MCL and meniscus injuries are common among athletes as they engage in a lot of twisting, pivoting and cutting motions that stress the knee joints. Older people may suffer from similar injuries due to degenerative wear and tear over the years.
Other Knee Injury Sources
Misaligned bones (vertebrae) is another source that can effect the knee joints. When Sacroiliac (SI) and lumbar (low-back) subluxations occur, they may affect the hip and, in turn, leg alignment and leg length. Leg length differences can cause disproportionate strain on the entire lower body, including the knees.
Clinical evaluations have shown that anterior knee pain (AKP)--at the front of the knee, is typically associated with SI joint dysfunction. This dysfunction can lead to muscle inhibition and ultimately knee pain. Chiropractic adjustments correct SI dysfunction through low back and pelvis adjustments.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is another common source of knee pain. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage in knee joints erodes, causing restrictive movement and the bones to rub against each other.
Knock knees and bow legs in children are also a precursor for knee issues in an individual. However, most children outgrow these conditions. Understanding the importance of good posture and a healthy diet and weight will help with such issues.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease "is a generally benign, self-limited knee condition most commonly found in rapidly growing athletically active adolescents." (Am Fam Physician 1990;41:173-6.) Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease may be tenderness, pain and swelling in the knee. Such symptoms can be brought on by sporting events that involve jumping, such as volleyball, basketball or running, or by the knee having direct contact with the ground. Most times, patients find that non-operative treatments such as rest, icing, activity modifications and physical therapy can help correct this painful knee condition.
Other Natural Solutions to Prevent Knee Injuries
Best in health, naturally,
Dr. Marc
This information on this web site is designed for educational purposes
only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice
or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any
health problems or illnesses without consulting Dr. Marc, your
pediatrician or family doctor.
The 3 Most Common Knee Injuries
ACL, MCL and Meniscus
According to researchers, the three most common knee injuries occur at the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and meniscus. "The ACL is located inside the knee joint and stabalizes the joint by preventing the shin-bone (tibia) from sliding forward beneath the thighbone (femur). A hard twist or excessive pressure on the ACL can tear it, so that the knee gives out and can no longer support the body."
The MCL, located inside the knee, is another crucial knee stabilizer. MCL injuries often occur along side injuries to the ACL.
The meniscus, "is a wedge-like rubbery cushion where the major bones of your leg connect," and "helps the knee joint to carry weight, glide and turn in many directions. It also keeps your femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone) from grinding against each other" (Sports Med 2006; 36:635-41).
ACL, MCL and meniscus injuries are common among athletes as they engage in a lot of twisting, pivoting and cutting motions that stress the knee joints. Older people may suffer from similar injuries due to degenerative wear and tear over the years.
Other Knee Injury Sources
Misaligned bones (vertebrae) is another source that can effect the knee joints. When Sacroiliac (SI) and lumbar (low-back) subluxations occur, they may affect the hip and, in turn, leg alignment and leg length. Leg length differences can cause disproportionate strain on the entire lower body, including the knees.
Clinical evaluations have shown that anterior knee pain (AKP)--at the front of the knee, is typically associated with SI joint dysfunction. This dysfunction can lead to muscle inhibition and ultimately knee pain. Chiropractic adjustments correct SI dysfunction through low back and pelvis adjustments.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is another common source of knee pain. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage in knee joints erodes, causing restrictive movement and the bones to rub against each other.
Knock knees and bow legs in children are also a precursor for knee issues in an individual. However, most children outgrow these conditions. Understanding the importance of good posture and a healthy diet and weight will help with such issues.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease "is a generally benign, self-limited knee condition most commonly found in rapidly growing athletically active adolescents." (Am Fam Physician 1990;41:173-6.) Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease may be tenderness, pain and swelling in the knee. Such symptoms can be brought on by sporting events that involve jumping, such as volleyball, basketball or running, or by the knee having direct contact with the ground. Most times, patients find that non-operative treatments such as rest, icing, activity modifications and physical therapy can help correct this painful knee condition.
Other Natural Solutions to Prevent Knee Injuries
- Chiropractic adjustments are an excellent way to avoid vertebral subluxation, associated pains such as knee pain and many other ailments
- Add antioxidants to your diet to destroy disease-causing free radical chemicals
- Use supplements such as Glucosamine and chondroitin for pain relief and prevention
- Exercise your body to maintain healthy bones and knees
Best in health, naturally,
Dr. Marc
Image
Health Disclaimer
This information on this web site is designed for educational purposes
only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice
or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any
health problems or illnesses without consulting Dr. Marc, your
pediatrician or family doctor.
Posts
0 comments:
Post a Comment