Knee pain physiotherapy
Knee pain can stem from osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, meniscus tears, or overuse. Physiotherapy strengthens the muscles supporting the knee, improves joint stability, and can often help patients avoid or delay surgery.
Written by Dr. V. B. Rajendra Prasad, MPT, licensed in the US and UK. 20 years of clinical experience.
The knee is the largest joint in the body and bears significant load during walking, running, climbing stairs, and daily activities. Pain can originate from the joint itself, the surrounding ligaments, menisci, tendons, or muscles.
Physiotherapy for knee pain focuses on identifying the specific source of pain and addressing it through targeted strengthening, mobility work, and movement retraining. For many conditions, including osteoarthritis, physiotherapy is recommended as a first-line treatment before considering surgery.
Conditions we treat
Treatment approach
Key exercises for knee pain
These exercises are commonly prescribed for knee pain. Consult a physiotherapist before starting, especially if you have acute pain.
Straight leg raise
Lying on your back, tighten the thigh muscle and lift the leg about 30 cm off the ground. Hold for 5 seconds. Strengthens the quadriceps without stressing the knee joint.
Wall sit
Lean against a wall with knees bent at about 45 degrees. Hold for 10 to 30 seconds. Builds quadriceps and glute strength.
Step-ups
Step up onto a low step leading with the affected leg. Step down slowly. Strengthens the knee in a functional movement pattern.
Hamstring stretch
Sitting on the floor with one leg straight, reach toward your toes and hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Reduces tension behind the knee.
Clamshells
Lying on your side with knees bent, lift the top knee while keeping feet together. Strengthens the hip muscles that stabilize the knee.
Need personalized guidance? A physiotherapist can assess your specific condition and tailor an exercise program for you. Start online physiotherapy
Recovery timeline
Recovery timelines depend on the specific condition. Patellofemoral pain often improves within 4 to 8 weeks. Osteoarthritis management is ongoing but patients typically notice reduced pain within 3 to 4 weeks of starting exercises. Ligament injuries and post-surgical rehabilitation may take 3 to 9 months.
When to see a physiotherapist
See a physiotherapist if knee pain persists for more than a few days, if your knee swells, gives way, or locks, or if pain limits your ability to walk, climb stairs, or exercise. After a knee injury, early assessment helps identify the problem and start the right treatment promptly.
Frequently asked questions
Can physiotherapy help knee osteoarthritis?
Should I exercise with knee pain?
When should I consider knee replacement?
Treatment cost
Treatment is the Spine & Joint package of 14 sessions: ₹6,800 online, or ₹8,500 for home visits in Vijayawada.
Not ready for a package? Start with a single 1-hour session of consultation and initial treatment: ₹649 online, or ₹799 at home in Vijayawada. The full amount is credited if you continue into a package within 14 days.
Every package includes
- 1Initial assessment
- 2Personalised exercise plan
- 3Supervised sessions and everyday movement
- 4Progress reviews
- 5Clinical completion summary
Each session is 45 minutes to 1 hour. How often you have sessions depends on your condition and stage of recovery, and you choose times that suit you.
No doctor's referral needed. How we screen · Check your warning signs
Illustrated exercises
Step-by-step pictures, how many to do, and common mistakes. Your physiotherapist will choose which suit you.
Written by Dr. V. B. Rajendra Prasad, MPT. Licensed to practice in the US (NY state) and UK (HCPC).
20 years of clinical experience. About Dr. Rajendra
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