Knee injuries are the most common reason for one to make a doctor’s appointment.Millions of people walk into their doctor’s office with complaints of knee pain, swelling, or the feeling that your knee is giving out. Here are the most common knee injuries that get you into your doctor.
- Fractures: The patella or kneecap is the most common knee fracture. The femur which is your thighbone and tibia which is your shinbone can also be fractured where they meet to form the knee joint. These injuries are usually caused by severe trauma, such as a fall.
- Dislocation: A dislocation happens as a result of the bones of the knee becoming out of place. The femur, tibia and patella can all slip out of place due to an injury from sports or a fall. It can also be due to an abnormality to the knee that a person is born with.
- ACL injury: The anterior cruciate ligament or the ACL is commonly injured or teared by athletes of rigorous sports that require one to quickly change direction or jump like football, basketball or soccer. It is most often injured during sports activities.
- PCL Injury: The posterior cruciate ligament is usually injured from a heavy blow to the front of the knee while in the bent position. This is a common injury as a result of a sports injury or a car or motorcycle accident. These type of tears can usually heal on their own.
- Collateral Ligament Injury: The collateral ligaments are often injured because a heavy force has pushed the knee sideways due to contact sports.
- Meniscal Tears: These type of tears usually happen suddenly due to twisting, pivoting or being tackled from sports. They can also occur due to age and arthritis.
- Tendon Tears: The quadriceps and patellar tendons can be torn or pulled. These type of tears are more common in the middle-aged who run or play sports that require jumping.
If you have suffered from any of these injuries, it is important to get to the doctor as soon as possible so a course of treatment can be determined. Until your appointment, remember to treat your symptoms with rest, ice, slight compression and elevation. Be prepared that your doctor may order or recommend anti-inflammatory medication, immobilization of the knee, physical therapy, or even surgery. Listen to your doctor’s advice, and you’ll be back to your old self in no time!