Hip Pain

There are a number of reasons for hip pain, such as a tight, strained or overused muscle in the hip or from the joint itself. Hip pain sometimes results from an injury. It can also come from the back or develop because of the way you move, stand, or use your hip.

Pain from osteoarthritis or wear and tear in the hip joint is also common. Osteopaths can help manage stiffness by looking at how the hip moves, and by strengthening and stretching the surrounding muscles.
They may also gently massage the hip muscles and stretch the joint to reduce tension and improve mobility. In addition, they can address secondary problems such as backache.

An osteopath may request X-rays, scans, or other tests to help make a diagnosis. They might also refer you to a GP or specialist for further investigations or treatment.

Knee pain

The knee is the body’s largest joint and a major weight-bearing one. It also ranks among the most frequently injured joints.

Knee pain can have many causes and may feel both painful and limiting. While some conditions might need surgery, many improve with the right advice, exercise, and treatment.

The knee joint connects the femur and tibia, with the patella (kneecap) at the front. It includes several key structures: ligaments, muscles, a joint capsule, a synovial membrane, and two C-shaped pieces of cartilage called menisci, which sit between the femur and tibia.

Damage, strain or sprain to the structures of the knee can give rise to symptoms. It can be the result of a sudden injury as often seen in sports injuries or by repeatedly placing strain on an area of the knee. Poor alignment of the knee or kneecap and altered joint mechanics in relation to other joints, such as the hips and knees, are often significant. Osteoarthritis or wear and tear is a common condition that affects the knee.

Symptoms

Common symptoms in the knee include pain, stiffness, aching, locking, swelling, limping and difficulty fully straightening or bending the knee.

An osteopath may request X-rays, scans, or other tests to help confirm a diagnosis. They can also refer you to a GP or specialist if you need further investigations or treatment.

Foot and ankle pain

Pain can occur in the foot and ankles for a number of reasons. The foot and ankle contain many small bones connected by ligaments, muscles, and fascia. Together, these structures provide the strength, stability, and flexibility needed for proper movement. Common conditions of the foot, ankle and areas which can give rise to pain include:

• Acquired flat foot – when the inner side of the foot or inner arch flattens. The foot may roll over to the inner side. It is often apparent if the heels of shoes wear out quickly and unevenly. It can damage the ankle joint and achilles tendon (the tendon at the back of your ankle) and can also cause shin pain. Symptoms can include, pain, swelling, change in foot shape and knee pain or swelling.
• Plantar fasciitis –is often a sharp pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia – the tough fibrous band of tissue that supports the arches of the foot and runs under the small bones from the underside of the heel and sole towards the toes. The pain often worsens after standing for long periods in poor footwear, spending too much time off your feet, or taking your first steps in the morning. The sole of the foot can occasionally feel a little numb, tingly or swell slightly.
• Achilles pain – The Achilles tendon forms where the two calf muscle tendons join and attach to the bone at the back of the heel. Pain, inflammation or tendonitis can cause pain and tightness in this area.
• Sprained ankle. Typically the result of a sudden twisting or “going over” on the ankle joint.  Typical symptoms are swelling, bruising, pain and instability of the ankle. Sometimes your osteopath may request an X-ray to rule out a fracture. Rest, ice, elevation and compression can help in the first 24 to 48 hours after injury.

 How can an osteopath help?

• Depending on diagnosis, age and fitness, a variety of gentle massage and mobilisation techniques can increase mobility in the joints and the flexibility of the muscles in the foot.
• Often muscles and joints in lower limbs, knee, hip and lower back will be looked at and any joint restrictions and muscle tightness may be treated to improve the movement in the joints of the lower body will help the foot and ankle function better.
• Specific balancing, strengthening or loosening exercises may also be offered, along with advice on strapping and brace supports, footwear and any lifestyle factors that might be hindering healing. You may also be referred to a podiatrist.
• X-rays, scans or other tests may be required to make a diagnosis and a referral to a GP may be made for any additional investigations and treatment, such as advice on pain killers and anti-inflammatory medications.