
Knee Pain
Physiotherapy for Knee Pain
Do you ever wonder why your knees bear the brunt of everyday activities? Every kilogram of your body weight translates into four kilograms of pressure on your knees, making them one of the hardest-working joints in your body.
Additionally, the knee is an intricate joint, comprising three bones (the thigh bone, kneecap, and shin bone) and multiple muscles crossing it. This complexity makes the knee vulnerable to various injuries and conditions.
Common Knee Injuries
Knee injuries are prevalent among athletes in high-impact sports and individuals with jobs requiring frequent kneeling or lifting. Here are some common knee conditions:
- Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome): Pain around the kneecap, often worsened by running, climbing stairs, or squatting. It typically results from overuse, poor alignment, or muscle imbalances.
- ACL Injuries: Tears to the Anterior Cruciate Ligament, a key stabiliser of the knee joint, often occur during high-impact activities. These injuries frequently require surgery and rehabilitation.
- Prepatellar Bursitis (Housemaid’s or Carpenter’s Knee): Inflammation of the bursa in front of the kneecap caused by prolonged kneeling, common in occupations like carpentry.
- Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint condition where the cartilage wears away, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. It typically affects older adults but can also result from injuries or genetics.
- Osteochondritis Dissecans: A condition where a small section of bone loses blood flow, causing pain and swelling as it separates from surrounding cartilage. It often affects young athletes and may require surgery if untreated.
- Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS): Pain on the outer side of the knee due to an inflamed or tight iliotibial band. It’s common in runners and cyclists and is managed through physiotherapy, stretching, and activity adjustments.
BEST PHYSIO I HAVE EVER HAD. I was recommended to see Callum by a friend of mine and I would recommend him to anyone I know. I have now seen four physios in total and Callum is by far the best. Callum has taken me from a mere feeble man with a VERY unstable knee and turned me into a strong, confident man who is now doing all the activities I wanted to do. I am now dancing, running, going to the gym, playing golf and doing all the things I was not able to do before. I know this sounds farfetched but I don’t think there is something Callum can’t do. After giving me this strength in my knee, I think he might even be able to walk on water. Recover physio has found an absolute diamond in Callum and I do hope others can feel the same appreciation I have for him. Thank you very much. All the best!
I visited Callum for three sessions after meniscus surgery, and appreciated his explanations of what was going on in my knee as it healed. I worked consistently on the exercises he gave me and got to where a wanted to be within 6 weeks. Thank you.
Huge thanks to Callum at Recover Physio for helping to get me back on track and complete a half marathon safely following my fall down the stairs at home in October. I had a tear in my knee ligament and some very bruised bones which was a big blow when my first half marathon was 6 months later! As time was short I decided to look for a physio who was experienced with knees but was doubtful as 30 years ago I’d had physio following a car accident in hospital and it didn’t seem to help. So Callum was faced with my knee injury, my old car accident injuries which still impact me today & someone who wasn’t very pro physiotherapy! I can now say I am a physio convert! Callum has explained everything clearly, professionally and helped get my knee strong enough to complete my first half marathon safely. I’ve physically seen the improvements in my knee & surrounding leg area and have understood how the ligaments & muscles all work and fit together thanks to his comprehensive explanations. Obviously it’s up to the client to complete the follow up exercises or rest as guided but this is what physiotherapy should be and I couldn’t have chosen a better physiotherapist to have helped me. He’s also helped with a neck issue too and I have some ongoing exercises to help all round and know I can pop back as and when I may need (especially due to the old injuries which can flare up). It’s very reassuring to know there is someone I can now rely on to help with any issues in the future (hopefully no more falls!) and I cannot recommend Callum enough as a knowledgeable, experienced, friendly and excellent physiotherapist.
Oliver has been working / rehabbing me over the last 18 months. I’m the wrong side of 60, a bit of a sore knee (ACL) injured 30 years ago and haven’t run a marathon since 2000. A lot to put right! Last summer was barely able to run 1k but yesterday completed the London Marathon. Oliver’s patience, understanding, knowledge, good humour and patient care are second to none. I would certainly recommend him and the Physio Recovery team …. Top class.
Very good experience at Recover Physio. I am a 75+ year old regular runner who had developed a knee injury. I chose Recover because their studio is within 50m of a bus stop within Norwich so access was easy. Prices were within the range of other companies I looked at. The treatment rooms were comfortable and there is gym room with different types of equipment. Henry, my physio, gave me a thorough inspection and reassured me that my running days were not over. (My major worry!) He put me on a carefully planned exercise program using weights and exercise with follow up visits. This led on to a structured return to running program that I using now. Very thorough and highly recommended
Having searched for a suitable physio that would meet quite stringent protocols set by my knee surgeon (Sam Rajaratnam)following 2 knee replacements ,I was lucky to find Callum at recover physio. I am grateful for Callums assistance with my knee rehab and subsequent rotator cuff recovery. My knee surgeon ,having liased with Callum during my treatments was equally impressed with his knowledge and professionalism !!
Leah helped look after my daughter during her physio session for her knee, and she was absolutely lovely. She was so kind, patient, and reassuring, which really helped my daughter feel comfortable and at ease. She’s clearly very knowledgeable and explained things in a way that made everything easy to understand. You can tell she genuinely cares about the people she’s helping. Such a warm, professional, and supportive experience, we’re really grateful for her care. Thank you, Leah!
I have had physiotherapy with Stuart for 2 and a half years following a sports-related knee injury and 2 knee surgeries in 2024. My experience at Recover Physio has been second to none and I couldn’t recommend them more. I travel over 100 miles to see Stuart as I truely believe he is the best of the best. Having been told by I consultant that I would never be able to run or play hockey again, Stuart reassured me and helped grow my confidence to get me back on the hockey pitch this year. My experience at Recover from the reception staff, and communication to the exercises and attention to detail has been faultless. Worth every penny. If you need a physiotherapy, I would not hesitate to book in here!
Very much helped by Lindsey’s advice and diagnostics of a few issues with my aged legs and knees, due to strain and arthritis. She made it all clear to me with illustrations plus providing excellent exercises to ease the pains and improve my balance. A charming person too!
I don’t think I could have chosen a better physiotherapy clinic than RecoverPhysio. Oliver, my physio, has been marvellous, dealing firstly with my sore knee, then a broken arm and finally a cracked rib. He was very professional, listened to what I had to say and was very patient with answering all my questions. I also had sessions with Riddhi and Mel and I felt a real benefit from their treatment too. After 15 months or so I feel whole, happy & pain free. Thanks to Oliver and all at RecoverPhysio.
A huge thank you to Callum for his expert knowledge, diagnosis, and treatment plan. I attended the clinic three months ago with knee pain that was impacting my running and even ascending or descending stairs. After a series of progressive exercises, I am back running again and completely pain-free. The service I received was excellent, including the reception team who were always polite and welcoming. I would have no hesitation in recommending Recoverphysio.
I went to the Nest at Norwich for physio on my knee. The access is great, parking easy and good coffee after my appointment. I saw Callum McVeigh who provided me with a range of exercises to help with knee discomfort and to strengthen the muscles. Unfortunately there was more going on with my knee but he didn’t hesitate to refer me onwards. Thanks for you help.
First time physio for my knees and decided in Recover. Henry was my physio and he was very friendly and informative with great advice and exercises.
I really cannot thank Oliver enough for the recovery I have made after my unicomp revision / knee replacement in 2025. My knee is now strong and I can walk for as long as I want, cycle and jog without problem. This is down to Olivers patience and expertise.
I couldn’t have asked for a better physio! I tore my acl and meniscus and was practically immobile and within a matter of months grace got my injured knee as strong (if not stronger) than my other knee! Graces knowledge and understanding of this knee injury was amazing, Grace has got me in the best position I could possibly be in before surgery. I really couldn’t recommend grace enough!!!
I came to Grace with a knee ligament injury with little hope that I would be playing football again this season but she was incredible and with her fantastic knowledge and expertise she has discharged me within 6 weeks and I’m back doing what I love! Cannot recommend her enough! Thank you
More Information
Opening Hours
- Monday8am – 8pm
- Tuesday8am – 5pm
- Wednesday8am – 8pm
- Thursday8am – 8pm
- Friday8am – 5pm
- Saturday9am – 1pm
- SundayCLOSED
Common Causes of Knee Pain
The causes of knee pain are as diverse as they are frequent. Common factors include:
- Acute injuries from intense activity, such as a torn ACL or meniscus.
- Chronic pain caused by repetitive strain on the joint over time.
- Childhood and adolescent conditions linked to growth and development.
- Referred pain, where nerve signals from the hip or lower back create discomfort in the knee.
Because the causes vary, physiotherapists employ a range of treatments tailored to each individual. Identifying the source of the pain is the first step in effective treatment and management.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Physiotherapy may not be the best immediate option if:
- There is significant swelling with no clear cause.
- You cannot bear weight on your knee.
- Your knee locks up or becomes immobile.
In such cases we can still assess and advise or you can seek emergency medical attention at A&E.
Can Physiotherapy Help My Knee Pain?
Physiotherapy is highly effective for managing and treating knee pain. At Recover Physiotherapy, we recommend booking an initial assessment to provide you with a diagnosis and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Although physiotherapy can address older injuries, early intervention generally leads to better outcomes. For chronic pain, treatment methods differ slightly compared to acute injuries.
How to Relieve Knee Pain at Home
While we recommend consulting a professional before attempting physiotherapy exercises, the following can help ease mild discomfort:
- Contrast Therapy: Apply an ice pack wrapped in a tea towel to the affected area for 1 minute, then alternate with a warm hot water bottle or wheat bag wrapped similarly for 2 minutes. Repeat this 6 times and the whole process a few times a day.
- Self-Massage: Lie face down with a foam roller under your thigh muscles. Use your body weight to roll up and down your thighs, focusing on any tightness you come across. You should aim to be rolling for no longer than 2minutes per muscle group.
How Recover Physiotherapy Can Help
At Recover Physiotherapy, we are dedicated to helping you overcome knee pain and improve your quality of life. Our team uses advanced physiotherapy techniques and a systematic, personalised approach to address the root cause of your pain.
Our therapists are trained by leading experts in knee pain, equipping them to accurately diagnose your condition and create a tailored roadmap for recovery.
Take the first step towards recovery. Book an initial consultation and treatment session today. We offer appointments at our clinics in:
- Princes Street, Norwich, Norfolk
- The Nest, Holt Road, Horsford, serving Norwich and North Norfolk
Find Your Nearest Recover Physio Clinic
Recover Physio proudly provides expert physiotherapy services in Norwich. With two convenient locations in the city centre on Princes Street and at The Nest just off Holt Road, we are committed to serving the Norfolk community.
Princes Street, Norwich City Centre
Our Princes Street clinic is the flagship clinic of Recover Physio, situated in the heart of Norwich city centre in Tombland.
The Nest, Holt Road - Norwich North
Our clinic at The Nest serves customers in Norwich and surrounding areas of North Norwich and Norfolk.
Click below to book online or request a callback from our friendly team or to book your appointment for knee pain using our online booking system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to treat knee pain?
The best approach is a professional assessment to find the exact cause of your pain. Because causes are so diverse, ranging from acute injuries like an ACL tear to chronic conditions or referred pain from the hip, a physiotherapist will create a personalised treatment plan for you. This usually involves a combination of hands-on manual therapy and specific exercises to address the root issue, not just the symptoms.
Is it better to rest or walk with knee pain?
This depends entirely on the cause and severity of your pain. While some acute injuries benefit from a short period of rest, prolonged inactivity can often worsen stiffness and weaken the muscles supporting the joint. Generally, gentle movement like walking is beneficial if it doesn’t significantly increase your pain. If you cannot bear weight on your knee at all or it locks up, you should seek emergency medical advice.
Will knee pain go away?
Many types of knee pain can resolve fully, especially with the correct treatment. Early intervention generally leads to better and faster outcomes. However, ignoring the pain or leaving the underlying cause untreated can lead to it becoming a chronic, persistent problem. A physiotherapist can diagnose the issue and create a recovery roadmap designed to relieve the pain and help prevent it from returning.
Should I see a physio for knee pain?
Yes, physiotherapy is highly effective for managing and treating most types of knee pain. We strongly recommend booking an initial assessment, especially if the pain interferes with your daily life, stops you from doing activities you enjoy, or isn’t getting better. Our therapists can provide an accurate diagnosis and create a tailored treatment plan to get you moving again, even if it’s an older injury.