Understanding Hip and Knee Pain

Hip and knee pain is one of the most common reasons people walk through our doors for, and for good reason. These major joints play a vital role in our ability to move, stay active and enjoy daily life so when pain strikes, it can significantly impact mobility, comfort and independence. 

Whether it’s climbing stairs, playing sport, running after the kids or simply standing up from a chair, hip and knee pain can make even the simplest tasks feel challenging, so at HBF Physio, we’re here to help. 

How common is hip and knee pain?

• In 2022, around 2.1 million (8.3%) people in Australia were estimated to be living with osteoarthritis (the breakdown of cartilage mostly affecting the hips and knees)¹ 

•  Every year, hundreds of people walk through our doors with hip or knee pain – either from nursing a sports niggle, or to seek help with long-term discomfort  

Common causes of hip and knee pain

Impacting people of all ages and activity levels, hip or knee pain may come on suddenly or it can develop gradually over time. For some, it’s a sharp pain with movement, while for others, it’s a persistent ache or stiffness, particularly after rest.  
 
Some causes of hip or knee pain can include: 

• Osteoarthritis – gradual wear and tear of cartilage in the joints 
• Tendinopathies – irritation or degeneration of tendons, often due to overuse 
• Ligament injuries – common sports injuries including ACL or MCL sprains 
• Bursitis – inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints 
• Muscle imbalances or biomechanical issues – causing strain on joints during movement

Signs it’s time to see a physiotherapist

If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a good idea to see a physiotherapist: 

• Persistent pain in the hip or knee 
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest 
• Difficulty walking, squatting, or climbing stairs 
• Swelling, clicking or locking in the joint 
• Pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities   

How HBF Physio can help

Our HBF physiotherapists adopt guideline-based care to help you manage your hip or knee pain.  
 
What is guideline-based care? This is a management plan that aligns with the latest evidence to ensure you are receiving the right treatment management plan that meets your individual needs.  

We will:  

• Conduct a thorough assessment 
• Provide you with education for your understanding of your condition/pain 
• Provide you with guidance regarding an exercise plan which is a first line treatment for knee and hip pain 
• May use other therapies such as massage or joint mobilisations that may offer short-term pain relief 
• Use outcome measures to help track your progress 
• Help you to implement function-focused goals to help you get back to what you miss the most 
• Make appropriate referrals, if required. Our physiotherapists are highly trained to assess if you need a referral for any imaging or to a specialist/surgeon to explore your issue further 

The GLA:D® Program

OSome of our clinics also offer the GLA:D® program, an evidence-based education and exercise program designed for people living with hip or knee osteoarthritis. Research shows GLA:D® participants experience: 

• Up to 32% reduction in pain 
• Improved strength, function and confidence 
• Reduced reliance on medication 
• Lower risk of needing joint replacement surgery 
   

Learn more about the GLA:D® program here.   

Get back to doing what you love

Hip and knee pain doesn’t have to be something you live with, so that’s why our physiotherapists are passionate about helping you stay active, independent and doing the things you love.  
 
To book an appointment to address your hip or knee pain or find out if the GLA:D® program is right for you, contact your nearest HBF Physio clinic today.

References

¹ https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/chronic-musculoskeletal-conditions/osteoarthritis