Lambert Sports Clinic · Surbiton

Knee Pain Physiotherapy in Surbiton — Causes, Assessment & Treatment

Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints — affecting people of all ages and activity levels, from competitive athletes to office workers and older adults. At Lambert Sports Clinic in Surbiton, we see a wide range of knee conditions and offer comprehensive physiotherapy assessment and treatment six days a week, including Saturdays.

This guide covers the most frequently seen knee conditions, how they are assessed, and the treatment options available.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Pain around or behind the kneecap — patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) — is one of the most common knee complaints, particularly in runners, cyclists, and young active people. It typically worsens with stairs, prolonged sitting, squatting, and running. Management focuses on quadriceps and hip strengthening, load management, and footwear review. Most cases respond well to a structured physiotherapy programme.

Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper's Knee)

Pain at the lower pole of the kneecap — patellar tendinopathy or jumper's knee — is a load-related tendon condition common in those who jump, sprint, or perform explosive lower-limb activities. It responds to a progressive tendon loading programme. In cases persisting beyond 3 months despite physiotherapy, shockwave therapy (ESWT) may be considered.

IT Band Syndrome (Runner's Knee)

Iliotibial band syndrome causes pain on the outer side of the knee, typically during running. It is the most common overuse running injury affecting the knee. Management involves addressing the underlying biomechanical contributors — hip weakness, training load, running technique — alongside soft tissue work for the IT band and TFL.

Medial Knee Pain

Pain on the inner side of the knee may arise from the medial collateral ligament (MCL), the medial meniscus, or pes anserine bursitis. Assessment is essential to identify the specific structure involved and guide appropriate treatment.

Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is extremely common in adults over 50, but pain and functional limitation from arthritis respond significantly better to exercise and physiotherapy than many people expect. Strengthening the muscles around the knee reduces load through the joint and improves function. Physiotherapy is recommended as first-line treatment for knee osteoarthritis in clinical guidelines.

Meniscal Problems

Meniscal tears — from acute injury or as degenerative changes over time — can cause pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms such as locking or giving way. A physiotherapy assessment can help determine the likely nature of the problem and whether imaging or surgical opinion is warranted. Many meniscal injuries, particularly degenerative ones, respond well to rehabilitation without surgery.

ACL Injury and Reconstruction Recovery

Whether you have suffered an ACL tear or are recovering from reconstruction surgery, specialist rehabilitation is essential. Our physiotherapists are experienced in post-operative knee rehabilitation and can guide you through a phased return to sport, including use of the AlterG anti-gravity treadmill for early loading after surgery.

Knee Pain Assessment at Lambert Sports Clinic

Your physiotherapy assessment will include a detailed history of your knee pain — when it started, what aggravates and eases it, and how it affects your daily life and activities. Physical examination assesses knee movement, strength, stability, and the structures most likely to be involved.

Where appropriate, referral for imaging (X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound) can be arranged.

When Is Shockwave Therapy Appropriate for Knee Pain?

Shockwave therapy (ESWT) for the knee is primarily indicated for patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee) that has not responded to 3 months or more of physiotherapy. It is not a treatment for all types of knee pain. Your physiotherapist will advise whether shockwave is appropriate for your specific diagnosis.

Getting Started

Whether your knee pain is new or has been present for years, physiotherapy assessment is the right starting point. Early intervention typically means faster recovery and a better outcome. Book online, call 020 8133 5694, or WhatsApp +44 7882 677844. We are located at 380 Ewell Road, Surbiton KT6 7BE — easily accessible from Kingston, New Malden, and the wider Surrey area.