KNEE PAIN TREATMENT IN GREENVILLE, SC
Reviewed by Dr. Michael Nelson, DC, MHRD, ATC, chiropractor and certified athletic trainer · Last updated November 2026
Knee pain is pain in or around the knee joint, commonly from irritated tendons, the kneecap joint, cartilage or ligaments, and it often reflects how load is shared between the hip, knee and ankle. At Carolina Active Health Chiropractic in downtown Greenville, SC, we look at the whole leg, treat what's irritated and help you get back to running, lifting and everyday activity.
Common causes of knee pain
- Runner's knee (patellofemoral pain): pain around or behind the kneecap, often with stairs, squats or sitting with bent knees.
- IT band syndrome: pain on the outside of the knee, common in runners and cyclists.
- Patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee): pain just below the kneecap with jumping, squatting or running.
- Meniscus and ligament injuries: often from a twist or impact, sometimes with swelling, locking or the knee giving way.
- Knee arthritis: stiffness and aching, often worse after rest or with long activity.
Get medical care promptly if you have:
- a pop with fast swelling after an injury, or you can't bear weight,
- a knee that locks or repeatedly gives way,
- a hot, red, swollen knee or fever, or
- calf pain and swelling, especially after travel or surgery (seek care right away).
How we treat knee pain
We start with a thorough exam of the knee, hip and ankle, including movement and strength testing. We take X-rays in our office when they're clinically indicated, and if a ligament or meniscus tear is suspected we coordinate an MRI or an orthopedic referral. Depending on what we find, your plan may include:
- soft-tissue therapy such as Active Release Technique, instrument-assisted soft-tissue therapy or dry needling,
- shockwave therapy or laser therapy when clinically appropriate,
- taping to support the knee during activity,
- a progressive strengthening program for the quads, hips and calves, and
- adjustments to your running, lifting or training load so you can stay active.
Knee pain FAQs
What is runner's knee?
Runner's knee, or patellofemoral pain, is pain around or behind the kneecap. It's usually related to training load and how the hip and knee control movement, and it typically responds well to strengthening and load changes.
Why does my knee hurt going down stairs?
Going downstairs puts a lot of load through the kneecap joint and the quadriceps tendon. Pain there is common with runner's knee and patellar tendon problems, and strengthening the quads and hips usually helps.
Should I stop running or squatting with knee pain?
Not always. Many people can keep training with changes to distance, depth or load while they rebuild strength. We'll help you decide what to keep, what to modify and when to progress.
Do I need a knee brace?
Sometimes a brace or taping can make activity more comfortable in the short term, but it works best alongside strengthening. We'll tell you whether one makes sense for you.
When does knee pain need an MRI?
An MRI is usually considered after an injury with significant swelling, locking, instability, or when symptoms aren't improving with care. We'll tell you if you need one and help coordinate it.
Related reading
General information only, not a diagnosis. Individual results vary. Carolina Active Health Chiropractic · 800 E Washington St, Ste B, Greenville, SC.
