Knee pain is a common problem that can affect walking, standing, work, and physical activity. It may develop gradually over time or occur suddenly after an injury. In many cases, knee pain is influenced by how the feet, ankles, and lower limbs move and absorb force.
Knee pain may be associated with:
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Ligament injuries or instability
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Osteoarthritis or joint degeneration
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Patellar (kneecap) tracking or alignment issues
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Overuse injuries from walking, running, or standing
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Poor lower-limb alignment or foot mechanics
How Do Foot Mechanics Affect the Knee?
Your feet form the foundation of your body. When foot posture or movement is inefficient, it can increase stress on the knees and contribute to pain or injury. Addressing foot mechanics can help improve alignment and reduce strain through the knee joint. A Canadian Certified Pedorthist can assess your foot mechanics, gait, alignment, and footwear to determine how they may be contributing to your knee pain.
Types Of Knee Conditions
Ligament Injuries
These occur when one or more knee ligaments are overstretched or torn, often from sports, sudden movements, or trauma. Examples include ACL, MCL, LCL, and PCL injuries. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, instability, or a feeling that the knee may give way.
May benefit from:
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Custom or non-custom ligament knee bracing for stability and pain
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Custom foot orthotics to improve alignment and reduce stress
Knee Osteoarthritis
A degenerative condition caused by gradual wear of the joint cartilage. Osteoarthritis is commonly found in the medial and lateral joint space between the femur and tibia. Symptoms often include stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion, and pain during walking or standing.
May benefit from:
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Unloader brace or supportive knee braces to reduce joint stress
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Custom foot orthotics (medial or lateral wedge) to improve alignment and shock absorption
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Footwear recommendations for comfort and stability
Meniscus Injuries
Damage to the cartilage that cushions the knee joint. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, clicking, locking, or difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee.
May benefit from:
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Supportive knee bracing during activity
- Unloader brace to decrease joint compression and load on meniscus
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Pain around or behind the kneecap caused by poor tracking or excessive stress. Often aggravated by stairs, squatting, kneeling, or prolonged sitting.
May benefit from:
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Patellar stabilization braces or mecical-grade compression sleeves
Tendon Injuries
Overuse or strain of the knee tendons, such as patellar tendonitis or quadriceps tendonitis.
Often associated with jumping, running, or repetitive activity.
Knee Bursitis
Inflammation of fluid-filled sacs around the knee joint. May cause swelling, tenderness, and pain, especially with kneeling or pressure.
May benefit from:
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Medical-grade compression sleeves
Post-Injury or Post-Surgical Knee Pain
Pain or weakness following a knee injury or surgery. Often requires supportive care during recovery to protect the joint and restore function.
May benefit from:
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Post-surgical hinged knee braces or immobilizers
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Cryotherapy compression therapy
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Orthotics and footwear guidance during recovery
When To Seek Our Care?
Consider booking an assessment if you experience:
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Ongoing or worsening knee pain
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Pain during walking, standing, or activity
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Feelings of instability or reduced confidence in your knee
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Knee pain that has not improved with rest
Early assessment and conservative care can help reduce pain, improve function, and prevent further joint stress.
