Physical therapy for knee pain
Knee pain can keep you from the activities you love — walking, running, climbing stairs, or just getting through the day. A licensed physical therapist can evaluate your knee over video, identify what's causing the problem, and build a targeted plan to get you moving again. Covered by your insurance.
What is knee pain?
Knee pain can originate from the joint itself, surrounding muscles and tendons, or how forces travel through your leg when you move. Common conditions include patellofemoral pain (runner's knee), patellar tendinitis, meniscus tears, ligament sprains, and osteoarthritis. The knee is heavily influenced by hip and ankle mechanics, so effective treatment often addresses the entire chain.
Common symptoms
- Pain around or behind the kneecap
- Swelling or stiffness in the joint
- Pain going up or down stairs
- Catching, locking, or giving way
- Pain during or after running
- Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee
- Grinding or popping sensations
- Pain after prolonged sitting
What causes knee pain?
Knee pain often results from overuse, muscle imbalances, or sudden increases in activity. Weak quadriceps, tight hip flexors, and poor landing mechanics are common contributing factors. Degenerative changes like osteoarthritis develop over time. Previous injuries, excess body weight, and certain sports increase risk.
How physical therapy helps with knee pain
Evaluation. Your PT assesses your knee through video — watching how you squat, walk, and move, testing range of motion and strength, and identifying muscle imbalances contributing to your pain.
Treatment. Your program targets the specific cause of your knee pain with strengthening exercises for the quads, glutes, and hip stabilizers, along with mobility work and activity modification.
Ongoing support. Message your PT between visits with questions or updates. Your exercise program progresses as you get stronger, with the goal of returning to your normal activities pain-free.
What to expect
Your first visit is about 60 minutes over video. Your PT will ask about your knee pain history and watch you perform functional movements. You'll leave with a clear understanding of what's going on and exercises to start immediately. Most patients notice improvement within 3-4 weeks.
Insurance accepted for knee pain
Physical therapy for knee pain is covered by most major insurance plans. You pay your normal copay — nothing extra for telehealth visits.
MedicareBlue Shield of CaliforniaAnthem Blue CrossCignaAetnaUnitedHealthcareHumanaTRICARE
Don't see your plan? Check your coverage — we accept many more.
Home visits for knee pain
In Los Angeles, Ventura, and San Diego counties, a licensed physical therapist can also come to your home. In-home physical therapy for knee pain lists the physical therapists who treat it and the neighborhoods they drive to.