Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints among adults over 50. As we age, the knee joint experiences years of wear and tear, making it more vulnerable to injury, inflammation, and degenerative conditions. While knee pain can limit mobility and quality of life, understanding the causes and available solutions can help many individuals stay active and independent. At Highland Physical Therapy, patients receive personalized care designed to relieve pain, restore function, and support long-term knee health.
Common Causes of Knee Pain in Adults 50+
One of the leading causes of knee pain in this age group is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage cushioning the knee gradually breaks down. This can lead to stiffness, swelling, and pain during walking or climbing stairs.
Another frequent cause is tendon or ligament overuse, often resulting from repetitive strain, sudden increases in activity, or improper movement patterns. Conditions such as patellar tendinitis or bursitis can cause localized discomfort around the kneecap.
Meniscus degeneration or tears are also common after 50. The meniscus, a cartilage structure that helps absorb shock in the knee, becomes less flexible with age and can tear even with minor twisting motions.
Additionally, muscle weakness, poor alignment, and previous injuries can all contribute to chronic knee pain.
Solutions and Treatment Options
The good news is that many cases of knee pain can be managed effectively with conservative care. Exercise and strengthening programs are among the most important interventions. Building strength in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles helps stabilize the knee and reduce stress on the joint.
Highland Physical Therapy specializes in developing individualized treatment plans that focus on strengthening, improving joint mobility, and correcting movement patterns that may be contributing to pain. Their experienced therapists work closely with patients to ensure exercises are safe, effective, and tailored to each person’s lifestyle and goals.
Physical therapy plays a central role in helping patients recover safely and effectively after knee surgery. Whether someone has undergone a total knee replacement, ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair, or another procedure, rehabilitation is essential for restoring strength, mobility, and function. Surgery may repair the structure of the knee, but physical therapy helps retrain the body to move properly again.
Shockwave Therapy as an Emerging Option
One treatment gaining attention for chronic knee pain is shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT). This non-invasive approach uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues.
Shockwave therapy may help reduce pain and improve function by increasing blood flow, promoting tissue regeneration, and decreasing inflammation. It is most commonly used for tendon-related knee conditions and may also provide relief for certain chronic degenerative issues.
At Highland Physical Therapy, shockwave therapy is offered as part of a comprehensive approach to knee rehabilitation. Many patients appreciate that this treatment is performed without surgery or injections, typically requiring a series of short outpatient sessions. Combined with guided strengthening and hands-on therapy, shockwave treatment can accelerate recovery and support lasting results.
Staying Active After 50
Knee pain does not have to mean giving up an active lifestyle. With proper diagnosis, targeted strengthening, and newer therapies such as shockwave treatment, many adults over 50 can reduce discomfort and maintain mobility for years to come. Highland Physical Therapy is committed to helping individuals regain confidence in movement, reduce pain, and stay active for the long term.
