5 COMMON KNEE INJURIES, HOW IT HAPPENS, AND TREATMENTS.
The knee joint is one of the most complex and largest joints in the human body. Apart from being an important joint, it also connects the thigh bone to the shin bone. It plays an important role in facilitating movements, supporting the body’s weight, and allowing a person to bend their knee. For this very reason, the knee is prone to multiple types of injuries. Let’s look at five knee injuries our physical therapist in Brentwood, Mo, often addresses.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) connects the upper and lower leg bones and aids in stabilizing the knee. If the lower leg extends too far forward or the leg twists, the ACL may be ruptured. One of the most frequent types of knee injuries is an ACL tear, which makes up around 40% of all sports-related injuries. Surgery isn’t always necessary for ACL injuries, although it sometimes is, depending on the extent of the tear and other circumstances. After an ACL injury, physical therapy is frequently advised.
Posterior Cruciate Ligament
The posterior cruciate ligament is another common injury. The shinbone and femur are connected by the posterior cruciate ligament, which prevents the shinbone from sliding too far back. This ligament is situated at the rear of the knee. When the knee sustains damage, like when a player in a sport lands on a bent knee, the posterior cruciate ligament can get injured. Treatment is often non-surgical if the posterior cruciate ligament is the only area damaged. However, surgery may be recommended if there are many damaged ligaments, a dislocated knee, among other issues.
Meniscal tear
The meniscus is a layer of cartilage located between the knee joints that helps in absorbing shock when one is jogging or engaging in athletic activity. The parts support and stabilize the joint by providing support. Unfortunately, contact sports like football and volleyball, as well as sports that call for jumping, frequently involve meniscus tears. The meniscus can tear when a runner abruptly changes direction. Depending on the degree of the rip and the extent of the injury, you might have to undergo surgery.
Tendon tear
Tendon tear is a common knee injury. The front of the thigh knee muscles and the patellar tendon, a tendon in the knee, cooperate to assist in straightening the leg. Anyone can tear their patellar tendon. However, middle-aged persons and athletes who jump or run frequently are more likely to experience rips. Complete tears are regarded as incapacitating injuries that need surgery to fully recover. However, most tears are merely partial tears, necessitating rest and physical therapy to aid in the healing process.
Knee fracture
A knee fracture is a type of injury involving the patella or the bone that makes up the front of your knee. The knee joint is shielded by the kneecap, which prevents damage or injury in the event of a fall. Because of this, a high impact fall or sports accident can cause the kneecap to break. The treatment for kneecap fractures, which are common but devastating injuries, typically involves immobilization or, in some circumstances, surgery.