Knee Pain After Massage: Causes and Treatment Options Explained

Knee pain after massage?

Hello Dr.
Lee, I experienced tightness in my shoulders and neck, so I went for a massage on Monday afternoon.
When the therapist was working on my legs, I felt that the pressure was a bit too strong.
Although it was painful at the time, I endured the session.
After the massage, I didn’t feel any significant discomfort, but the next morning, I started to feel pain at the upper edge of my left knee.
As of today (Wednesday), the pain has not subsided, and using a patch has not been effective.
I would like to ask you, is it possible that the pain at the upper edge of my left knee, which started about ten hours after the massage, was caused by the massage? (My family is wondering if it could be inflammation.) Additionally, how should I treat this? I would greatly appreciate your guidance!

Lin Xiansheng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/16

Dr. Li Yanheng reply Rehabilitation

It is possible that excessive pressure has caused a mild muscle injury, leading to knee instability and pain at the upper edge of the knee.
It is recommended to apply ice and rest.
If the pain persists, consider consulting a rehabilitation specialist.

Reply Date: 2022/03/16

More Info

Knee pain following a massage can be a perplexing issue, especially when the discomfort arises hours after the treatment. In your case, it seems that the pain in the upper region of your left knee began the day after a massage session where you experienced significant pressure on your legs. This situation raises several important considerations regarding the potential causes of your knee pain and the appropriate treatment options.

Possible Causes of Knee Pain After Massage
1. Muscle Strain or Overuse: The massage therapist may have applied excessive pressure, leading to muscle strain or overuse. This is particularly likely if the muscles around the knee were tight or tense prior to the massage. The quadriceps and hamstring muscles, which are crucial for knee stability, can become sore if they are manipulated too aggressively.

2. Soft Tissue Injury: Deep tissue massage can sometimes cause micro-tears in the muscle fibers or connective tissues. If the massage was particularly vigorous, it could have resulted in inflammation in the soft tissues surrounding the knee joint.

3. Knee Joint Stress: If the massage involved movements that placed stress on the knee joint, such as bending or twisting, it could lead to irritation of the joint structures, including the ligaments or cartilage.

4. Pre-existing Conditions: If you had any underlying knee issues, such as patellar tendinitis or bursitis, the massage could have exacerbated these conditions, leading to pain.

5. Inflammation: Your family’s suggestion of inflammation is plausible. Inflammation can occur as a response to injury or overuse, and it may manifest as pain, swelling, or stiffness in the knee.

Treatment Options
1. Rest and Ice: Initially, it is crucial to rest the affected knee and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Applying ice to the knee for 15-20 minutes every few hours can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain.

2. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can be effective in managing pain and reducing inflammation. However, it's essential to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any contraindications.

3. Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Once the acute pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles can help restore function and prevent future injuries. However, avoid any movements that cause pain.

4. Physical Therapy: If the pain persists, consider consulting a physical therapist. They can provide a tailored rehabilitation program that focuses on strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving flexibility.

5. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If you experience increased swelling, redness, warmth around the knee, or if the pain worsens, it may indicate a more serious issue, such as a ligament injury or significant inflammation that requires medical evaluation.

6. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If the pain does not improve with home treatment or if you have concerns about the severity of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an X-ray or MRI, to rule out any serious injuries.

Conclusion
In summary, while it is possible that the massage contributed to your knee pain, it is essential to consider other factors such as pre-existing conditions and the nature of the massage itself. Implementing rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relief can be effective initial steps. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, seeking professional medical advice is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember to listen to your body and avoid activities that exacerbate your pain during the recovery process.

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