5 Common Knee Injuries and Treatments

The knee joint may suffer damage during almost any activity, even sitting down. Here’s what you need to know about the five most common knee injuries, and their treatment.

Meniscal Tears

The meniscus is a thin cartilage rim that cushions the knee joint. The meniscus may become torn or ruptured in an athletic or other injury, causing pain, swelling, tenderness, and a limited range of motion.

Meniscus tears do not often heal by themselves but respond quite well to physical therapy and other conservative treatments. Arthroscopic surgery may be necessary in the most severe tears.

ACL Injuries

The ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) is one of the four important ligaments that stabilize the knee. The ACL may get torn due to a sudden shift of force or direction, as in sports injuries. A partial or complete tear causes pain, swelling, instability in the knee, and, a popping sound in the knee.

While partial tears in less active patients can be treated conservatively, active patients who suffer from partial or complete tears need arthroscopic surgery to regain knee joint function.

Fractures

Three bones – the thigh bone, the shin bone and the kneecap – together make up the knee. Any of these bones can break during a fall, a car accident, or indirect trauma. A fractured bone can cause heavy pain, severe swelling, and difficulty walking.

Stable fractures can heal by themselves within several weeks or months once set in a cast. But displaced fractures require surgery to reset the bones. In both cases, recovery requires an extensive physical therapy program to strengthen the joint and regain the full range of motion.

Dislocations

The kneecap or patella may become dislodged from the groove at the bottom of the femur. This is referred to as dislocation and can be caused as a result of an acute or chronic injury. It causes severe pain and swelling and restricted motion.

Many patellar dislocations can be stabilized with rest and bracing but a repeatedly dislocated kneecap may require surgery.

Tendon Tears

The patellar tendon is the tissue responsible for connecting the thigh muscles to the patella. It allows you to flex and straighten your knee. It may become ruptured due to a sudden, strong force, and tear upon a fall or an awkward landing.

Partial tears can be treated conservatively with a brace and physical therapy. But a full tear will require surgery.

Both athletes and non-athletes can suffer from a knee injury. If you’re suffering from acute or chronic knee pain, it’s time to consult an experienced orthopedic surgeon to help you recover completely.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Why People Are Turning to PRP for Pain Relief

You want relief right now when you're hurting, and we can help with that. But we have to tackle pain at its source to give you long-term solutions. PRP can help with that. Learn more about this innovative therapy.

I Got Hurt on the Job: Can You Help?

You deserve the best care available, whether injured on the job or while enjoying a weekend getaway. Our team explains how the process differs when you’re hurt on the job, starting with a provider who accepts workers’ compensation insurance.

How to Avoid an Ankle Fracture

A simple misstep can result in an ankle fracture that may interfere with your mobility for months. But how are you supposed to avoid an occasional clumsy step? Check these facts about different types of ankle fractures and how to reduce your risks.

When Should I Consider a Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement is rarely your first, second, and maybe not even your third treatment option for solving chronic knee pain. Our orthopedic specialist explains why and when you may benefit from partial or total knee replacement.

Coping With Arthritis Pain in Your Shoulders

Shoulder arthritis is, unfortunately, a painfully common condition that can significantly affect your daily routine. Our orthopedic specialist discusses the effects of shoulder arthritis and ways to combat the pain and decreased range of motion.

How PRP Is Alleviating Joint Pain and Restoring Mobility

PRP therapy was once reserved for celebrity athletes undergoing extensive rehab for joint injuries. These days, anyone experiencing joint pain and stiffness may benefit from this highly effective therapy. Check these facts about PRP.