A Brief Discussion on Seven Most Common Knee Injuries

Among all joints present in a human body, knee is considered to be largest and most complex. Acting as connector between thigh and shin bone, it successfully promotes movement as well as support weight. Professional athletes drink substantial amounts of water, strictly comply with a balanced diet, and perform a series of exercises such as glute bridges, clams, marches, wall squats, etc. for strengthening knee, yet being acquainted with some of its disorders is also highly essential. Know more by checking out below-mentioned pointers.

• Dislocations

Sudden fall or high-speed impact can force knee bones to change their normal placement. Apart from extreme soreness, deformity, rigidity, visible swelling, and instability are few other major symptoms that people must keep in mind. Over-the-counter medications might bring down discomfort but knee dislocations generally require surgery.

• Fractures

According to a well-known sports medicine physician, patella or kneecap can break when individuals are pushed against a hard floor, implement improper techniques, or utilise equipment of inferior quality. Although quite common, kneecap fractures could only be cured through an operation or immobilisation for prolonged periods.

• Meniscal Tears

Meniscus could be loosely defined as a cartilage piece positioned at centre of knee for absorbing shocks, which might occur when a person is playing sports such as volleyball, football, etc. or running very fast. Now when direction of leg is changed suddenly, the meniscus could tear causing excruciating pain, popping sensation, and immense inflammation.

• Tendon Tears

Patellar tendon works along with knee muscles helping a person straighten his or her legs in a seamless manner. Middle-aged people when jump abruptly might unfortunately tear their tendons. While a surgical procedure can only treat a complete tear, adequate amounts of rest can heal the partial ones within two weeks or so.

• ACL Injuries

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) joins the bones of upper and lower legs together. ACL might get injured if the lower leg extends excessively forward and twists. Medical professionals often advise people to undertake physiotherapy for the said condition.

• PCL Injuries

Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) is located right at back of knee and joins femur and shinbone. PCL injuries occur when a person lands on bent knee curtly. Excruciating pain, difficulty in walking or even standing up, and swelling are some prominent signs. Joints might also feel much loose.

• Collateral Ligament Injuries

Collateral ligament injury is incredibly common especially when the lower leg is compelled to bend sideways. Surgery is not needed as executing RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) therapy with maximum diligence can help.

While a few home remedies can most surely alleviate knee pain to a great extent, if things tend to exacerbate, seeking professional assistance seems viable. Athletes must carry out a comprehensive research and rely upon specialised recommendations before scheduling appointment with a particular sports medicine physician.

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