Knee Pain Treatment In West Des Moines, IA
Content Reviewed by: Dr. Josiah Fitzsimmons, DC, BCN on November 10, 2026
Iowa Chiropractic License #085940 (NPI: 1568993574)
Knee Pain Treatment At A Glance
Knee pain is one of the most frequently treated extremity conditions at Vero Health Center. It develops from acute injury, degenerative change, biomechanical contributors from the hip and foot, and overuse patterns in athletic patients. The knee is a complex joint, and pain in and around it can have several different structural origins that require specific evaluation to identify.
Conservative care for knee pain at Vero Health Center may include chiropractic evaluation of the lumbar spine, pelvis, and hip mechanics that influence how the knee loads, shockwave therapy for chronic tendon conditions around the knee, and regenerative medicine for patients with degenerative joint changes. The specific approach depends entirely on what the evaluation reveals.
What Is Knee Pain?
Knee pain refers to discomfort arising from any of the structures within or surrounding the knee joint. The knee is a hinge joint that also allows a small degree of rotation. It is supported by the medial and lateral collateral ligaments, the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments, the medial and lateral menisci, the quadriceps and hamstring musculature, the patellar tendon, and the articular cartilage that lines the joint surfaces.
Pain can originate from any of these structures. The location of pain within or around the knee, the activities that aggravate it, and how it developed all provide important diagnostic information. Pain on the inside of the knee suggests medial compartment or MCL involvement. Pain on the outside suggests lateral structures or IT band pathology. Pain above or below the kneecap suggests patellar tendon or quadriceps tendon involvement. Pain within the joint with swelling suggests cartilage or meniscal involvement.
Common Symptoms Of Knee Pain
Knee pain symptoms vary widely depending on the structure involved and the acuity of the problem.
Acute knee pain following an injury is often severe and accompanied by swelling, bruising, and an immediate loss of function. Ligament sprains and meniscal tears from sports injuries commonly present this way. Patellar dislocation produces a distinctive lateral shift of the kneecap with immediate pain and instability.
Chronic knee pain that has developed gradually is more often associated with articular cartilage degeneration, tendinopathy, or IT band syndrome. Patients describe a dull aching that worsens with prolonged activity, stiffness after sitting, clicking or grinding with movement, and difficulty descending stairs.
Locking, catching, or giving way of the knee are mechanical symptoms that suggest structural involvement such as a meniscal tear or loose body. Significant joint swelling that returns repeatedly after activity is associated with intra-articular pathology.
What Causes Knee Pain?
Knee pain develops from acute trauma, overuse, degenerative change, and biomechanical contributors from adjacent joints.
Osteoarthritis of the knee is the most common cause of chronic knee pain in older adults. It involves progressive loss of articular cartilage, narrowing of the joint space, and formation of bone spurs that produce pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
IT band syndrome is a common overuse condition in runners and cyclists where the iliotibial band becomes irritated as it rubs over the lateral femoral condyle. It produces lateral knee pain that characteristically worsens at a specific point during running.
Patellar tendinopathy develops from repeated loading of the patellar tendon without adequate recovery. It is common in jumping athletes and produces anterior knee pain below the kneecap that worsens with activity.
Hip and ankle biomechanics play a significant role in how the knee loads during activity. Hip weakness that allows excessive femoral internal rotation and foot pronation that increases knee valgus stress both contribute to patellofemoral pain syndrome and other knee overuse conditions.
Conditions That Can Mimic Knee Pain
Hip pathology, particularly hip labral tears and femoroacetabular impingement, can produce anterior groin and thigh pain that patients sometimes describe as knee pain. Lumbar radiculopathy from the L3 or L4 nerve roots produces referred pain into the anterior thigh and can extend toward the knee. Iliotibial band tightness produces lateral thigh pain that can be felt all the way to the outer knee without true knee joint pathology. Accurate diagnosis is important because treating the knee when the source is the hip or lumbar spine produces limited improvement.
When To Seek Urgent Care For Knee Pain
Seek urgent medical or emergency care for knee pain accompanied by an audible pop at the time of injury followed by rapid swelling and inability to bear weight, as this pattern is associated with ACL rupture. Significant joint swelling after a low-energy injury in an older patient may indicate a fracture. Fever with a hot, swollen, red joint requires urgent evaluation to rule out septic arthritis.
What Our Patients Are Saying
How We Diagnose Knee Pain At Vero Health Center
Knee pain evaluation at Vero Health Center includes assessment of the knee joint itself as well as the hip and lumbar spine, which significantly influence how the knee functions. We assess knee joint mobility, ligament stability, patellar tracking, and meniscal integrity using appropriate orthopedic testing. Evaluation of hip strength, pelvic alignment, and lumbar spine mechanics is included when biomechanical contributors are suspected. Where appropriate, we review available imaging including X-rays and MRI.
How Vero Health Center Treats Knee Pain
Knee pain treatment at Vero Health Center targets both the local knee pathology and the contributing biomechanical factors from adjacent joints.
Chiropractic And Biomechanical Correction
Addressing lumbar, pelvic, and hip dysfunction that contributes to abnormal knee loading is often an important component of knee pain treatment. Chiropractic care at those levels reduces the mechanical stress driving knee symptoms from above.
Knee Decompression Therapy
Knee decompression therapy may be used when joint compression, arthritis, degeneration, or restricted knee mechanics are contributing to pain and reduced mobility. The goal is to reduce stress on the knee joint, improve comfort with movement, and support better function as part of a broader care plan.
Shockwave Therapy For Tendon Conditions
For patellar tendinopathy, IT band syndrome, and other chronic soft tissue conditions around the knee, shockwave therapy targets the tendon or tissue damage directly and supports the body’s repair response where rest and conservative care alone have not produced lasting results.
Regenerative Medicine For Joint Degeneration
For patients with osteoarthritic knee degeneration, regenerative medicine may be an appropriate component of the care plan. Evaluation confirms whether the degree of degeneration and the patient’s overall presentation fit this approach.
Home Exercise Support For Knee Stability And Movement
Strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and hip stabilizers can help address the muscle imbalances that contribute to abnormal knee loading. When appropriate, Vero Health Center may recommend home exercises to support knee stability, improve movement patterns, and reduce ongoing mechanical stress on the joint.
Why Early Treatment Matters For Knee Pain
Knee pain that is not addressed tends to progress. Articular cartilage does not regenerate readily, and continued loading through a degenerated or inflamed joint accelerates structural changes. Muscle inhibition caused by pain leads to further weakness and instability. Early evaluation and care protect the joint from progressive damage and address the biomechanical contributors before they produce secondary structural changes.
Meet The Experts Behind Your Care
Dr. Josiah Fitzsimmons, D.C.
Dr. Josiah Fitzsimmons is originally from Ames, IA. He played college football at South Dakota State and graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and a master’s degree in Nutrition, Exercise and Food Sciences in a five-year span. He then attended the fountainhead, Palmer College of Chiropractic.
Dr. Logan Dabney, D.C.
Dr. Logan Dabney is originally from Centerville, IA. He attended Centerville High School, where he discovered his passion for health and science as a frequent visitor to his hometown chiropractor. He then attended the University of Northern Iowa, where he majored in Pre-Med/Chiropractic Biology, before completing his graduate studies at Palmer College of Chiropractic. During his time at Palmer, Dr. Logan was heavily involved in Torque Release Technique and earned Advanced Proficiency Certification in it.
Dr. Scott Coyle, D.C.
Dr. E. Scott Coyle is originally from Waterloo, IA. He graduated from Pepperdine University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Medicine and then attended Palmer College of Chiropractic-West. After practicing in California for several years, he returned to Knoxville, IA, in 1997, where he practiced until 2016. Dr. Coyle then worked in robotic spine and brain surgery for two years with Mazor Robotics, and practiced in Lawrence, KS, for two years before returning home to join the Vero Health Center team. He works with patients dealing with chronic neck, mid-back, and low-back pain, headaches, and arthritis-related discomfort.
Dr. Austin Seitsinger, D.C.
Dr. Austin Seitsinger is originally from Sumner, Iowa. He studied Biology at the University of Northern Iowa, and then attended Palmer College of Chiropractic. He chose to pursue chiropractic at a young age as he has always had a passion for helping others.
Dr. Nate Halverson, D.C.
Dr. Nate Halverson is originally from Fort Dodge, IA, where he was a multi-sport athlete at Fort Dodge Senior High and placed 5th at the Iowa High School wrestling tournament. He found his passion for holistic health care through his background in athletics. After receiving his Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Northern Iowa, he graduated with honors from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, IA, in 2015. He then worked as the lead chiropractor for a chiropractic and sports injury practice in Chicago before moving back to the Des Moines area with his wife, Leah, to be closer to family. They welcomed their daughter, Hayes, in April 2022 and their son, Steele, in June 2024.
Dr. Colby Nelson, D.C.
Dr. Colby Nelson is originally from Audubon, Iowa. He attended Iowa State University, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, and then attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, where he received his Doctorate of Chiropractic degree. During his time at Palmer, he was a leader of the Sports Injury Club and participated in a clinic abroad program in Brazil. Before joining the team at Vero, Dr. Colby operated his own chiropractic clinic for 12 years.
Dr. Taylor Vanden Wynboom, D.C.
Dr. Taylor Vanden Wynboom is originally from Britt, IA. He received his BS degree from Central College and his Doctorate degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic. Before joining the team at Vero Health Center, he owned his own practice in both Ames and Ankeny. In his free time, he enjoys coaching football, exercising, and spending time with his wife Amanda and their four kids, Tate, Harper, Holland, and Harlow.
Dr. Darrius Poe, D.C.
Dr. Darrius Poe is originally from Fort Dodge, Iowa. He attended the University of Northern Iowa where he earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science. While in undergrad, he discovered his passion for chiropractic after being treated for a sports injury in a chiropractic clinic. Not only did the chiropractic treatments help with his shoulder injury, he was also educated on the intricacies of the central nervous system and how chiropractic care can help the body heal and function better as a whole. Dr. Darrius’ experience as a chiropractic patient motivated him to pursue a career in chiropractic. He attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, IA, where he received his doctorate in 2018. Prior to joining the Vero team, Dr. Darrius served as an associate and clinic director for six years in the Des Moines metro area.
Dr. Toby Thepsoumphone, D.C.
Dr. Toby Thepsoumphone is originally from Smyrna, Delaware. He graduated from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a concentration in Exercise Physiology. He then pursued a doctorate degree in chiropractic and graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport. Dr. Toby also attended Harris School of Business in Dover, Delaware, where he earned a degree in Massage Therapy. He has worked as a Licensed Massage Therapist since 2016. He specializes in sports massage, deep tissue, and gua sha. His passion is to help others to achieve optimal health and wellness. He has certifications in the Webster’s Technique and acupuncture.
Dr. Scott Jacobson, D.C.
Dr. Scott Jacobson grew up in Cherokee, Iowa, and has spent more than 17 years in practice across Iowa, Minnesota, Texas, California, and South America. While living in South America, he helped grow a clinic into one of the largest on the continent and became bilingual in Spanish along the way. He is Board Certified in Neuropathy (BCN) through the American College of Physical Medicine (ACoPM) and previously served in the United States Air Force and worked with the Department of Defense. Dr. Scott Jacobson has also been a black belt in Taekwondo for 40 years. He and his wife have two sons—so apparently he enjoys a challenge both professionally and at home.
Serving West Des Moines And Nearby Iowa Communities
Vero Health Center is located at 630 S 50th St in West Des Moines, Iowa, and serves patients from West Des Moines, Clive, Windsor Heights, Urbandale, Des Moines, Johnston, Norwalk, Waukee, Grimes, Saylorville, Van Meter, Pleasant Hill, Ankeny, Dallas Center, Granger, Polk City, De Soto, Carlisle, Adel, Altoona, Bondurant, Indianola, Cumming, and the surrounding area.
Sources And Clinical References
- Source: Mayo Clinic: Knee Pain: Causes
- Source: Cleveland Clinic: Arthritis
- Source: CDC: Physical Activity for Arthritis
- Source: PubMed: ESWT in Common Lower Limb Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chiropractic care help with knee arthritis?
Chiropractic care addresses the biomechanical contributors to knee loading and may help reduce symptoms in arthritic knees. For patients with significant degeneration, regenerative medicine may also be an appropriate component of care. We will evaluate your case and give you an honest assessment of what conservative care can realistically accomplish.
I was told I need knee replacement surgery. Are there conservative options to try first?
Yes. For many patients with moderate knee arthritis, conservative options including chiropractic care, regenerative medicine, shockwave therapy, and rehabilitation provide meaningful symptom relief and may delay or reduce the need for surgery. We will evaluate your case and give you a clear picture of what is realistic.
Can knee pain be caused by my hip or back?
Yes. Hip weakness, pelvic instability, and lumbar spine dysfunction all affect how the knee loads during movement. Knee pain that develops without a specific knee injury should include evaluation of the hip and lumbar spine as contributing factors.
How do I know if my knee pain is serious?
Most knee pain that develops gradually is not a surgical emergency. Knee pain that developed after a significant injury, is accompanied by rapid swelling, involves instability or locking, or has not improved with activity modification over several weeks warrants evaluation. Contact us and we will help determine the appropriate next step.
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Read This ArticleBook Knee Pain Treatment in West Des Moines
Knee pain that limits your movement, interferes with exercise, or has kept you looking for answers deserves a proper evaluation. Vero Health Center addresses the mechanical and structural contributors to knee pain with conservative care that targets the source. Contact us to schedule your evaluation.