Why Does My Knee Hurt?

Knee pain is one of the most common complaints treated at physiotherapy clinics. It can affect people of all ages and activity levels, from competitive athletes to office workers. The knee is a complex joint that relies on the coordinated function of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. When any of these structures is strained, inflamed, or weak, pain and movement limitations can follow.

Getting a proper assessment is the most important step, because the right treatment depends entirely on what is actually causing the pain.

Common Knee Conditions Treated at Physiolab

  • Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee)
  • IT band syndrome
  • Meniscus tears and irritation
  • ACL, MCL, and PCL sprains and post-surgical rehab
  • Patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
  • Knee osteoarthritis
  • Bursitis
  • Post-knee replacement rehabilitation
  • Knee pain related to hip or foot dysfunction
  • Knee injuries from running, cycling, or team sports

How Physiotherapy Treats Knee Pain

Your physiotherapist will start with a thorough assessment that looks at not just the knee itself but also the hip, ankle, and foot, since movement mechanics throughout the whole leg affect how the knee loads and moves. This means treatment is often more comprehensive than patients expect.

Treatment at Physiolab may include:

  • Manual therapy to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness
  • Soft tissue work to address muscle tension in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and IT band
  • Dry needling or IMS for deep trigger point pain
  • Taping or bracing for short-term support and pain modulation
  • Strength and conditioning exercises targeting the hip, glutes, and quad
  • Running gait or movement analysis for sport-related knee pain

Knee Pain and Running

Runners are particularly prone to knee pain, with patellofemoral syndrome and IT band syndrome being the two most common culprits. These conditions are often driven by muscle imbalances, training load increases, or biomechanical factors in the way you run. Physiotherapy can identify these patterns and help you return to running pain-free with a progressive, structured plan.

Knee Arthritis and Non-Surgical Options

Knee osteoarthritis is very common, particularly in adults over 50, but it does not automatically mean surgery or a lifetime of pain. Physiotherapy that focuses on strengthening the muscles around the knee, improving mobility, and reducing load through the joint can meaningfully reduce pain and improve function. Many patients with knee arthritis who commit to physiotherapy are able to avoid or delay surgery.

Book Your Knee Pain Assessment in Vancouver

Physiolab has four Vancouver locations with physiotherapists experienced in diagnosing and treating all types of knee conditions. Direct billing to most extended health plans is available, and we accept ICBC and WorkSafeBC referrals.

Knee pain that limits your running, sports, or daily life does not have to be permanent.

Our Vancouver physiotherapists treat the root cause of knee pain and get you back to the activities you love. Book your assessment at Physiolab today.

Book Now

What Our
Patients Say

★★★★★
I have been going to Jackson Lam at the Physiolab for many months following knee surgery. I have been supremely impressed with Jackson and his entire team. He is truly the best physiotherapist I have ever been to and I have seen many physiotherapists over my life. Jackson's care is exceptional - attentive, thorough, and genuinely invested in his patients' outcomes.
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Benny theLhasaApso
★★★★★
This place is fantastic. I have been having knee problems for years and Jackson has really helped me go on the right path to correcting this problem. He's very professional and extremely down to earth which makes for a very comfortable setting. He also knows how to connect with you which is an important attribute to have.
J
Janice L.
★★★★★
This review is long over due! I have been seeing Larissa for physiotherapy/clinical Pilates for close to 10 years now and I can honestly say she changed my life. When I first started seeing her, I had persistent knee pain. Larissa is incredibly thorough and knowledgeable, and uses a variety of assessments and treatment approaches. The results speak for themselves.
E
Emma Puchniak
★★★★★
I came in with jumpers knee which had been persistent since my first year of uni. Working with Ernest Lo got me back to 100% and I couldn't be happier as my jumpers knee is gone and I have a strong foundation to ensure it doesn't return. I highly recommend Ernest and Physiolab for anyone looking to get rid of persistent knee pain.
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RJ

FAQs

Common questions about knee pain physiotherapy, knee injuries, and what to expect from treatment in Vancouver.
Can physiotherapy fix knee pain?

For most types of knee pain, physiotherapy produces significant improvement. It addresses the underlying mechanical causes of pain rather than just masking symptoms. Whether your pain is from a sports injury, overuse, or arthritis, physiotherapy can reduce pain, improve function, and help prevent recurrence.

What is the most common type of knee pain treated by physiotherapists?

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee), IT band syndrome, patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee), and knee osteoarthritis are among the most frequently treated conditions. Ligament sprains and post-surgical rehab after ACL or meniscus procedures are also very common.

Do I need an MRI before seeing a physiotherapist for knee pain?

No. A skilled physiotherapist can assess knee pain thoroughly through physical examination and movement testing. Imaging is sometimes helpful but is not required to begin treatment. If imaging is warranted, your physiotherapist will recommend it or refer you to your doctor.

Can physiotherapy help with knee osteoarthritis?

Yes. Strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving joint mobility can significantly reduce arthritic knee pain and improve daily function. Many patients with knee arthritis are able to avoid or delay surgery with a consistent physiotherapy program.

How long does it take to recover from a knee injury with physiotherapy?

Recovery time varies depending on the type and severity of the injury. Minor sprains and overuse injuries often improve within 4 to 8 weeks. More significant injuries like ACL tears or post-surgical rehab can take 6 to 12 months or longer, with physiotherapy guiding each phase of recovery.

Can physiotherapy help with knee pain from running?

Yes. Runner’s knee and IT band syndrome are very common and respond well to physiotherapy. Treatment addresses the muscle imbalances and biomechanical factors that caused the problem in the first place, and includes a structured return-to-running plan.

Will I need surgery for my knee pain?

Most knee conditions do not require surgery, at least not as an immediate first step. Physiotherapy is a standard first-line treatment for the majority of knee injuries and conditions. If surgery is ultimately needed, physiotherapy both before and after the procedure improves outcomes significantly.

Is knee pain from a car accident covered by ICBC?

Yes. Knee injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident are covered under ICBC Enhanced Care. Physiolab is an approved ICBC provider with direct billing. Contact us with your claim number to get started.

What exercises help with knee pain?

The most effective exercises depend on the specific condition causing your knee pain. Glute strengthening, quad strengthening, hip mobility work, and calf flexibility are commonly prescribed. Your physiotherapist will build a personalized home exercise program tailored to your diagnosis and activity goals.

Our
Locations

We are proud to serve multiple convenient locations, ensuring quality physiotherapy care is always within reach.