Strength and Conditioning for Knee Injuries: A Guide to Recovery

Knee injuries, caused by overuse, trauma, surgery, or biomechanical imbalances, can impair strength and mobility, and as a result, quality of life. A targeted strength and conditioning program following a knee injury can support recovery and prevent future issues. Our Chiropractic team in North York focuses on more than just reducing the pain, instead here is what we would consider when helping your recovery from knee injury or surgery -  strengthen your knees and restore function.

Common Knee Injuries

• Ligament tears (e.g., ACL, MCL)

• Meniscus tears

• Patellar tendinitis ("jumper's knee")

• Osteoarthritis

• Post Operative Knee Rehabilitation

Each injury needs a tailored recovery plan focusing on strength and mobility.

Key Steps in Knee Strength and Condition Rehabilitation

1. Initial Recovery

• Our goal is to reduce the initial inflammation to support pain reduction and improve range of motion.

• Manual active and passive techniques are utilized to help us achieve the goal of inflammation support for the injured knee.

2. Supervised Strength Program for Knee, Hip and Ankle Muscles

• Rebuild direct and supportive knee muscular activation and strength.

• Joints above and below the knee are also considered.

3. Balance and Stability

• Time to progress, prepare joints and muscles for real world or sport retraining.

• Use single-leg exercises or wobble boards to rebuild neuromuscular control.

4. Progress Knee, Hip and Ankle Strength Gradually

• Safe and measured progression of muscle training with the end goal in mind.

• Increase resistance and intensity carefully to avoid setbacks.

5. Incorporate Functional Movements

• Based on your activity - work or sport, we rebuild, test and train to the demands you individually require to be successful

Tips for Success

• Work with an experienced active therapy Chiropractor and supportive health team.

• Stay consistent with the recommended treatment plan from your treatment team.

• Avoid pushing through sharp or persistent pain.

Knee Injury Prevention Strategies

Maintain a balanced routine with dynamic warm-ups, strength training, and low-impact activities like swimming or cycling to protect your knees long-term.  Your recovery team can provide a program to support knee injury prevention strategies.

Recovering from a knee injury takes patience and dedication. With a strategic approach to strength and conditioning, you can return to your activities stronger and more resilient than ever.  If you would like to learn more about how we can help you recover from a knee injury, call us at CPC Toronto.  Our specialized chiropractic team proudly serves North York and surrounding areas.