Can a Chiropractor Help with Knee Pain?

Knee pain can be a frustrating and even disabling issue, affecting everything from your ability to walk to your quality of sleep. Whether it’s caused by an old sports injury, wear and tear from aging, or something like osteoarthritis, knee pain is often complex and it doesn’t always respond well to rest or medication.

But what if the answer isn’t just in your knee? What if your spine, hips, or gait are contributing to the problem?

This is where chiropractic care can make a difference.

Understanding Knee Pain

Your knee is a hinge joint that takes on a lot of stress daily. It relies on support from surrounding structures like your hips, spine, muscles, and feet. When those areas are misaligned or not functioning properly, your knees often pay the price.

Common causes of knee pain include:

• Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee)

• Meniscus tears

• Ligament injuries (like ACL or MCL tears)

• Osteoarthritis

• Muscle imbalances or overuse

• Poor biomechanics and posture

  
  

How Can a Chiropractor Help?

While chiropractors don’t just “crack backs,” many people don’t realize that they can also treat issues involving the knees, hips, and other extremities. Here’s how chiropractic care may help reduce knee pain:

1. Addressing Joint Misalignments

Misalignments in the spine, pelvis, or even the feet can shift the way your body moves—and your knees may bear the brunt of that compensation. Chiropractors assess your full posture and gait to realign your body and reduce unnecessary stress on the knee joint.

2. Manual Therapy & Adjustments

Chiropractic adjustments to the knee, hip, or ankle can improve joint mobility and reduce inflammation. This can be especially helpful for people dealing with osteoarthritis or stiffness after an injury.

3. Soft Tissue Work

Many chiropractors include myofascial release, trigger point therapy, or instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) to relieve tight muscles and improve range of motion.

4. Rehab Exercises

Targeted exercises and stretches can strengthen the muscles that support your knees (like the quads, hamstrings, and glutes). A chiropractor can guide you through a custom rehab plan to prevent reinjury and support long-term function.

5. Lifestyle & Ergonomic Advice

From footwear to standing posture, your daily habits impact your knees more than you may think. Chiropractors often coach patients on changes they can make at work, home, or during sports to relieve pressure on the joints.

When to See a Chiropractor for Knee Pain

Chiropractic care may be a good option if:

• Your knee pain is chronic or recurring

• You want to avoid surgery or reduce medication use

• You've tried other therapies without success

• You suspect your posture, gait, or alignment may be contributing

• Your knee pain is accompanied by hip, back, or foot pain

Note: If your knee is severely swollen, you heard a “pop” during injury, or you can’t put weight on it, seek immediate medical attention before visiting a chiropractor.

Real Results, Naturally

Many patients are surprised at how effective chiropractic care can be not just for back pain but for knee pain too. By treating the root cause, not just the symptoms, chiropractors take a holistic approach that often leads to long-term relief.

If you're dealing with knee pain that just won’t go away, consider booking a consultation with a chiropractor. You might find that the answer to your knee pain isn’t in your knee at all.

Need help now? Book a visit with our team and discover a customized approach to reducing your knee pain, restoring mobility, and getting you back to the activities you love.