Common Knee Injuries

Almost everyone experiences knee pain at some point in their life. The knee is one of the most important and complex joints that supports movement and function in the leg. This complexity makes it vulnerable to injury.

The knee is made up of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. The femur (thigh) bone and the tibia (lower leg bone) meet at the knee. Two C-shaped cartilage pieces, the menisci, reduce friction between the femur and tibia. The four main ligaments that keep the knee joint intact are:

• The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)
• The medial collateral ligament (MCL)
• The lateral collateral ligament (LCL)
• The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL)

Damage done to any one or more of these ligaments can severely damage a person’s ability to bend, move, and twist the knee or leg.

Common Types of Knee Injuries

• Fractures – The patella or kneecap is the most commonly fractured bone in the knee joint. A fracture could result from severe trauma to the knee, as in a car accident or a fall. Degenerative conditions, such as osteoporosis, can also make the kneecap vulnerable to fracture.
• Dislocation – Dislocation of the knee is usually the result of the knee bones being thrown out of their proper alignment. This can cause severe pain. The knee joint can be dislocated due to injuries sustained in contact sports, falls, or other trauma.
• Meniscal Tears – A tear in the menisci can occur during a contact sport or in an accident. In some cases, age-related wear may cause the initial tear.
• Tendonitis – This refers to inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. This is also referred to as ‘Jumper’s knee’ because athletes experience this injury due to jumping.
• Bursitis – There are fluid-filled sacs, or bursae, within the knee joints. The bursae help the tendons and ligaments smoothly glide over the knee joint. Swelling and inflammation in the knee can cause bursitis.
• Ligament injuries – Knee ligament injuries are usually the result of injuries sustained while playing contact sports, such as soccer. Grade 3 ligament injuries are the most severe case and indicate a complete tear.

If you are suffering from knee pain and discomfort or you feel you have any of the above-listed conditions, consult an orthopedic doctor right away. An orthopedic doctor or surgeon will thoroughly examine your knee, understand your symptoms and then design a complete treatment plan for your specific injury or condition and your individual needs.

To learn more about orthopedic treatments, such as knee arthritis and Achilles tendonitis treatments, call one of the best orthopedic surgeons in Phoenix AZ, call Phoenix Shoulder and Knee at 480-219-3342. Dr. Adam Farber is a Fellowship Trained, Board Certified Phoenix and Scottsdale orthopedic surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine.

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Created on Nov 29th 2019 06:59. Viewed 386 times.

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