This joke gave the physiotherapists and biokineticists at Samantha Dunbar INC, the giggles because “bum knee” is a phrase we hear all the time -but what does it actually mean?
“Bum knee” is an informal way of describing knee discomfort, pain, or dysfunction. It can cover a wide range of issues, from general aches and stiffness to more specific injuries like ligament tears (such as the ACL), meniscus damage, patellofemoral pain syndrome (pain around the kneecap), arthritis, or problems caused by overuse. In short, if your knee isn’t working the way it should – whether it’s painful, weak, swollen, or unstable – you might refer to it as a “bum knee.”
How Physiotherapy and Biokinetics Can Help
The good news is that physiotherapy and biokinetics can be incredibly effective in treating knee issues – even if you’re not exactly sure what’s causing the problem. During your first appointment, your physiotherapist will carry out a thorough assessment to identify what’s going on inside the joint and what might be contributing to your symptoms.
Once we understand the cause, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan to help reduce pain, restore mobility, and build strength around the knee. This might include targeted exercises, manual therapy, education about movement patterns, and possibly modalities such as heat, shockwave or ultrasound . Our goal is not just to get you back on your feet – but to keep you there, moving well and confidently.
Whether your knee has been bothering you for years, or it’s a more recent issue from sport, work, or everyday activity, don’t ignore it. A “bum knee” doesn’t have to stay that way -with the right care, recovery is absolutely possible.
