The spinal column plays a key role in the function of the knee. Unfortunately, this is often overlooked in mainstream health care today. The spine-knee connection is both mechanical, as well as neurological. Therefore, proper knee function requires balanced and coordinated muscle function, which in turn is dependent upon proper nerve function. Simply stated, the knee cannot function properly if the nerves and muscles are not working in a synchronized fashion.
A study published in 1999, found that Activator adjustments to the lower back (specifically the SI joints), improved muscle function of the main muscle of the front of the knee. A follow-up study in 2000 showed the same positive results in a randomized clinical trial.
In my clinical experience over the last 28 years, I have seen many people, young and old, experience positive results with consistent chiropractic care, for a wide range of knee problems. One example is for a condition called Osgood-Schlatter disease. Medically, this condition is considered incurable, but we’ve seen many young kids often recover faster from this painful problem after beginning chiropractic care, and allowing for an active lifestyle once again. We’ve also helped many people who struggle with knee pain, despite having no obvious signs of problems on their X-rays and scans.
Most knee problems are often treated with painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. While they may provide short-term relief, these drugs can complicate the problem in the long-run, while the neuromechanical dysfunction persists and possibly even worsens.
Anti-inflammatory drugs can accelerate degeneration of the joints and may even lead to chronic pain. As a result, overuse of these drugs can turn an acute injury into a lifelong, chronic problem.
While knee problems can begin without an obvious injury to the knee, they can also result from a traumatic fall. It’s important to note that traumatic falls or injuries can often result in subluxation patterns in the spine and pelvis that will compromise neurological function and keep the knee from healing and adapting properly.
Most people think of chiropractic care as a treatment for the spine and back. As a result, few people come to us specifically for knee problems. Many people that seek chiropractic care for their backs, also have challenges with their knees, and will often experience relief as the spine and nervous system begins to move and function better. In fact, many even forget they had the problem, until we ask them about their “bad” knee.
While some people will require surgery to correct long-standing knee problems, it’s always worth trying chiropractic first before resorting to anything more invasive, including pharmaceutical drugs. Improving spinal balance and neurological function can also help to prevent future knee problems, allowing for an active and enjoyable life.
by SJ NANA, DC, DrNana.co.za, Neuramaya.com
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