Services
LOWER LIMB: HIP, KNEE AND ANKLE PAIN
What is lower limb pain?
The lower limb consists of the hip, knee and ankle, which are all susceptible to inflammation and pain. The lower back, hip and leg bones are all connected; therefore, pain or inflammation in one area can affect other areas.- Hip pain:
The hip joint is a joint that connects the upper body to the lower body and is responsible for providing stability and balance. Hip pain is common among all ages, and may cause mild to severe discomfort when doing normal daily activities like standing, walking, bending, and climbing stairs. Symptoms of hip pain include achy and sharp, shooting pains or a tingling sensation. Hip pain may be caused by muscle strains and tendonitis, snapping hip syndrome, impingement of the hip, pinched nerves and osteoarthritis.
- Knee pain:
The knee is the most commonly injured joint in the body and that takes compressive forces when standing, walking, and running. Knee injuries can occur at any age and may be due to overuse, lack of use, sudden trauma, or underlying conditions like arthritis. Knee pain may be felt around the kneecap, at the back of the knee or inside the joint. Knee joint pain may affect daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, standing or getting out of bed.
- Ankle pain:
The ankle is responsible for providing balance and allows you to move from point A to point B. Ankle and foot injuries can occur at any age and at any time. There are different types of injuries that may cause ankle pain such as ankle sprains, Achilles tendinitis, shin splints, and bunions over the big toe.
How is lower limb pain treated?
As a physiotherapist, Phillo Beukes will perform a comprehensive evaluation in order to determine the part where the lower leg pain is. He will also check your medical history to determine whether the pain may be caused by an underlying medical condition. The physiotherapist will recommend lower limb strengthening exercise, joint mobilisation, and dry needling to improve flexibility, pain and swelling.
