A knee injury can affect anyone of any age and activity level. It is caused by an accident, a sport, overuse, or a medical condition. It can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee. Furthermore, some knee injuries can damage cartilage, ligaments, tendons, or bones.
There are many possible causes of knee injury, such as:
Trauma: A sudden impact or twist of the knee can cause fractures, dislocations, sprains, strains, or tears of the soft tissues. Examples of trauma include falls, collisions, or direct blows to the knee.
Overuse: Repeated stress or strain on the knee can cause inflammation, irritation, or degeneration of the tissues. Examples of overuse include running, jumping, or kneeling for long periods of time.
Medical conditions: Some diseases or disorders can affect the knee joint or the surrounding structures. Examples of medical conditions include arthritis, gout, infection, or tumor.
The symptoms of knee injury depend on the type, severity, and location of the damage. Some common symptoms include:
Pain: The pain can be mild, moderate, or severe, and can vary in quality, such as sharp, dull, throbbing, or burning. The pain can also change with movement, rest, or pressure.
Swelling: The swelling can be localized or diffuse, and can occur immediately or gradually after the injury. The swelling can also cause warmth, redness, or bruising around the knee.
Stiffness: The stiffness can limit the range of motion or flexibility of the knee. The stiffness can also cause difficulty bending, straightening, or walking with the knee.
Instability: The instability can make the knee feel loose, wobbly, or unstable. The instability can also cause the knee to give way, buckle, or lock.
To diagnose a knee injury, a doctor will usually perform a physical examination and ask about the history and symptoms of the injury. The doctor may also order some tests, such as:
X-rays: X-rays can show the bones and the alignment of the knee joint. They can also detect fractures, dislocations, or arthritis.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI can show the soft tissues and the structures within the knee joint. They can also detect tears, inflammation, or degeneration of the cartilage, ligaments, tendons, or menisci.
Ultrasound: Ultrasound can show the blood flow and the fluid around the knee joint. They can also detect cysts, bursitis, or effusion.
Arthroscopy: Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a small camera and instruments into the knee joint through small incisions. It can allow the doctor to see and treat the inside of the knee joint.
The treatment of knee injury depends on the type, severity, and location of the damage. Some common treatments include:
Rest: Resting the knee can help reduce the pain, swelling, and inflammation. It can also prevent further injury or complications.
Ice: Applying ice to the knee can help numb the pain, reduce the swelling, and constrict the blood vessels. It can also speed up the healing process.
Compression: Wrapping the knee with an elastic bandage or a brace can help support the knee, reduce the swelling, and limit the movement. It can also protect the knee from further injury or stress.
Elevation: Elevating the knee above the level of the heart can help drain the fluid, reduce the swelling, and improve the blood circulation. It can also relieve the pressure on the knee.
Medication: Taking over-the-counter or prescription medication can help relieve the pain, inflammation, or infection. Some common medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, or antibiotics.
Physical therapy: Doing physical therapy can help restore the strength, flexibility, and function of the knee. It can also prevent stiffness, scar tissue, or chronic pain. Some common physical therapy exercises include stretching, strengthening, or balance exercises.
Surgery: Surgery may be needed to repair or replace the damaged tissues or structures in the knee joint. Some common surgical procedures include arthroscopy, ligament reconstruction, meniscus repair, or knee replacement.
To prevent knee injury, some general tips include:
By warming up before any physical activity, you can prepare your muscles, joints, and ligaments for the stress and strain. You can also increase blood flow and oxygen to your tissues, preventing injuries and cramps.
After any exercise, cooling down can help relax the muscles, joints, and ligaments and prevent stiffness and soreness. It can also remove waste products and lactic acid from the tissues and prevent inflammation.
Stretch: Stretching regularly can help maintain the flexibility and elasticity of the muscles, joints, and ligaments. It can also prevent tightness, spasms, or tears.
Strengthen: Strengthening the muscles around the knee can help support and stabilize the knee joint. It can also prevent weakness, imbalance, or fatigue.
Shoes that fit properly and provide adequate cushioning, support, and traction can help absorb shock and reduce the impact on the knee. They can also prevent slipping, twisting, or rolling of the ankle or foot.
Keeping the knee from becoming overused can prevent inflammation, irritation, or degeneration of the tissues. It can also prevent chronic pain and arthritis. Examples of overuse include running, jumping, or kneeling long periods.
A fall, collision, or direct blow to the knee can cause trauma that can cause fractures, dislocations, or tears of the tissues.
