Causes of Hip, Knee & Shoulder Pain
The shoulder, hip, and knee are common sites of musculoskeletal pain, which can arise from various causes such as injury, overuse, arthritis, degenerative conditions, or post-surgical recovery. These joints rely on numerous muscles essential for daily activities, so pain in these areas can significantly limit participation and reduce quality of life. Common conditions affecting these regions include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Tendinopathies (e.g., patellar, rotator cuff, gluteal)
- Bursitis
- Rotator cuff injuries or tears
- Labral tears (hip labrum)
- Ligament injuries (ACL, MCL)
- Meniscal tears
- Hip or knee replacements (pre- and post-operative)
- Posture- or movement-related pain
- Overuse injuries from work, sport, or repetitive movements
- Chronic pain and stiffness
How does Exercise Help?
Exercise helps hip, knee, and shoulder pain by:
- Strengthening the muscles that support and stabilize the joints, reducing strain
- Improving joint flexibility and range of motion to decrease stiffness
- Correcting movement patterns to prevent further injury
- Enhancing blood flow to promote healing and reduce inflammation
- Increasing overall function and mobility for daily activities
Exercise Physiologists Role:
Exercise Physiology plays a crucial role in rehabilitation and pain management by focusing on restoring function, enhancing joint stability, and reducing discomfort through evidence-based movement strategies. Tailored programs that address individual needs help strengthen surrounding muscles, increase range of motion, and improve movement patterns, supporting long-term health. This approach encourages safe, increased physical activity, enabling people to return to meaningful activities and improve their overall quality of life.
