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Knee Pain Physiotherapy in Bundoora

Ashley Haleel
July 2026
7 min read

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional for advice specific to your condition. © 2026 Better Physiotherapy Bundoora.

Knee pain is one of the most searched physiotherapy topics in Australia, affecting people of all ages — from teenage athletes to older adults with osteoarthritis. Whether your knee pain came on suddenly from an injury or has developed gradually over time, physiotherapy offers highly effective, evidence-based treatment for almost every knee condition.

Knee Conditions We Treat

ACL Injuries

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most commonly injured knee ligaments, particularly in sports involving pivoting, jumping, and direction changes — AFL, soccer, netball, and basketball. We offer comprehensive ACL rehabilitation programs for both non-surgical management and post-ACL reconstruction surgery. Return-to-sport testing with objective criteria is a core part of our ACL programs.

Meniscus Tears

The menisci are cartilage discs that cushion and stabilise the knee. Meniscus tears can occur from acute twisting injuries or gradually through degenerative changes. Research now supports non-surgical management for many meniscus tears, particularly in adults over 35. Physiotherapy focuses on restoring knee strength, stability, and function. If surgery is required, we provide full post-meniscectomy rehabilitation.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee)

Runner's knee causes pain around or behind the kneecap, typically worsened by running, stairs, squatting, and prolonged sitting. It is extremely common in runners, cyclists, and teenagers during growth spurts. Physiotherapy addresses the hip weakness and movement pattern problems that drive this condition — not just the painful knee itself.

Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper's Knee)

Patellar tendinopathy causes pain at the front of the knee just below the kneecap. It is an overuse injury common in basketball, volleyball, and AFL players. Treatment centres on progressive loading of the tendon using eccentric and heavy slow resistance exercises.

Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in Australia. Exercise therapy is the first-line treatment — far more effective than pain medication or injections alone. Physiotherapy strengthens the quadriceps and hip muscles that support the knee joint, reduces pain, and improves function. Many patients with severe OA find they can delay or avoid knee replacement surgery with a structured physio program.

IT Band Syndrome

Iliotibial band syndrome causes lateral (outer) knee pain in runners, particularly those who have increased their mileage quickly. We address hip weakness, running technique, and training load — not just the tight IT band itself.

MCL and LCL Sprains

Medial and lateral collateral ligament sprains range from mild (Grade 1) to complete tears (Grade 3). Grade 1 and 2 sprains are managed conservatively with physiotherapy. Grade 3 MCL tears may be managed non-surgically in many cases, while LCL tears often require surgical repair.

How Physiotherapy Treats Knee Pain

  • Detailed biomechanical assessment — identifying the specific structure involved and the contributing factors (hip weakness, movement patterns, training load)
  • Manual therapy — patella mobilisation, knee joint mobilisation, soft tissue treatment of surrounding muscles
  • Progressive strengthening — targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles that protect the knee
  • Activity modification — managing load intelligently to allow healing without complete rest
  • Return-to-sport programs — for athletes, objective testing to confirm readiness before return to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Can physiotherapy treat knee pain without surgery?

Yes, in many cases. Knee OA, patellofemoral pain, many meniscus presentations, and most ligament sprains respond very well to physiotherapy. Surgery is typically only considered after conservative treatment has been trialled adequately.

How long will it take for my knee to get better?

Runner's knee and mild sprains: 4–8 weeks. Meniscus tears: 6–12 weeks. ACL non-surgical rehab: 3–6 months. Post-ACL reconstruction: 9–12 months. Post-knee replacement: 3–6 months. Your physiotherapist will give you a personalised timeline at your first appointment.

Do I need a scan for knee pain?

Not necessarily. Many knee conditions can be accurately diagnosed through physical examination. Imaging is most useful when a complete ligament tear is suspected, when a meniscus tear needs surgical planning, or when the diagnosis is unclear after a thorough assessment.

Is it safe to exercise with knee osteoarthritis?

Yes — and it is strongly recommended. Exercise is the number one treatment for knee OA. Inactivity causes muscle weakness and further joint degeneration. A physiotherapist will design a program that strengthens the supporting muscles without stressing the joint excessively.

AH

Ashley Haleel

Physiotherapist & Owner — Better Physiotherapy Bundoora

Knee Pain? Book Today.

Same-day appointments available. Bulk billing for Medicare EPC. No referral required.