5 Common Causes of Knee Pain in Dripping Springs—and How We Treat Them Without Surgery at Evolve Chiropractic

Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints we see at Evolve Chiropractic in Dripping Springs, TX. Whether you’re an active CrossFitter, a weekend hiker at Hamilton Pool, or just someone who enjoys walking without discomfort, knee pain can severely impact your quality of life. The good news? Surgery and long-term medications aren’t your only options.

Below, we’ll explore the five most common causes of knee pain we see in the Hill Country community and break down how our three-phase, non-surgical chiropractic treatment method helps people just like you get back to moving, living, and thriving—pain-free.

1. IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome)

The iliotibial (IT) band is a thick band of fascia that runs from the hip to the outside of the knee. When tight or inflamed, it can rub against the lateral femoral epicondyle (the outer part of the knee), causing sharp pain, especially during activity like running or cycling.

Common symptoms:

• Sharp or burning pain on the outside of the knee

• Pain that worsens with repetitive movement or going downhill

• A feeling of snapping or popping at the knee

Root causes: Often caused by hip muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, or overuse.

2. Meniscus Damage or Irritation

Your meniscus is a crescent-shaped cartilage that cushions the knee joint. Tears or degeneration can result from trauma, twisting motions, or age-related wear.

Common symptoms:

• Clicking, catching, or locking of the knee

• Pain along the joint line

• Swelling or stiffness

Did you know? Not all meniscus damage requires surgery—especially if the tear is minor or due to biomechanical issues that can be corrected conservatively.

3. Popliteus Muscle Spasm

The popliteus is a small but crucial stabilizer muscle located at the back of the knee. It unlocks the knee from a fully extended position and supports rotational movement.

Common symptoms:

• Deep pain behind the knee

• Discomfort when walking downhill or squatting

• A feeling of knee instability

This often gets misdiagnosed or overlooked, but a tight or spastic popliteus can mimic more serious knee injuries and limit performance.

4. Tibialis Weakness (Tibialis Anterior & Posterior)

Your tibialis anterior and posterior muscles help with foot control, arch support, and ankle stabilization—essential for optimal knee mechanics. When weak or underactive, they can throw off your gait, putting excessive strain on your knees.

Common symptoms:

• Shin or ankle pain during walking/running

• Knee discomfort when standing or walking for long periods

• Collapsing arches or poor foot posture

This cause is common in people who sit for long periods or wear unsupportive footwear.

5. Hip Mobility Dysfunction Causing Knee Pain

Your hips and knees are intimately connected in the kinetic chain. Limited hip mobility—especially in internal rotation or extension—can force the knee to compensate, often leading to pain or wear and tear.

Common symptoms:

• Inner or outer knee pain during movement

• Difficulty squatting or lunging with good form

• Tight hips, hamstrings, or lower back pain

Improving hip mobility often brings surprising relief to knee discomfort—without ever touching the knee itself.

How Evolve Chiropractic Treats Knee Pain—Without Drugs or Surgery

At Evolve Chiropractic in Dripping Springs, TX, we take a unique three-phase approach to knee pain relief and rehabilitation:

Phase 1: Relief Care

We begin with targeted treatments to reduce inflammation, improve range of motion, and decrease pain:

• Chiropractic adjustments (spine, pelvis, and extremities)

• Soft tissue release techniques (Active Release, percussion therapy)

• E-stim and heat therapy

• Kinesiology taping for support and swelling control

Phase 2: Recovery

Once pain subsides, we focus on correcting the underlying causes:

• Custom treatment for hips, knees, and feet

• Cupping & Dry Needling therapy for long-lasting results

Phase 3: Rehabilitation & Performance

Finally, we build resilience and prevent re-injury:

• Rotational core and hip mobility drills

• Anti-rotation stability exercises

• Plyometric and return-to-sport guidance

• Balance and proprioception work

• Posture and gait training

• Resistance band exercises to activate glutes, tibialis, and stabilizers

• Lifestyle advice for footwear, ergonomics, and ongoing mobility

Our goal isn’t just to get you out of pain—it’s to keep you moving for years to come.

Why Choose Evolve Chiropractic for Knee Pain in Dripping Springs, TX?

We’re not your average chiropractic clinic.

• One-on-one care with Dr. Jackson Humphrey, a collegiate athlete and certified chiropractic sports practitioner.

• Longer appointment times and customized protocols.

• No cookie-cutter treatment plans.

• Integrated therapies that target the real cause of your knee pain.

Located conveniently in Dripping Springs, we serve active adults, athletes, and families in the surrounding Hill Country who want real results—without pills, injections, or unnecessary surgery.

Don’t Let Knee Pain Hold You Back

Whether your pain started from running trails, squatting at the gym, or just standing for long periods—you don’t have to live with it. At Evolve Chiropractic, we believe in helping you heal from the inside out with smart, effective, and natural care.

📞 Call us today at (512) 829-5216 or visit our website to schedule your evaluation. Book your visit now!