Common Knee Injuries

The knee is a complex joint, which makes it particularly susceptible to injury. The bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage in the knee can become injured from overuse or sudden trauma. Since you need your knee joints to comfortably walk and move around, knee injuries can be disabling. 

The Most Common Knee Injuries

  • ACL injuries

The ACL is the anterior cruciate ligament. This ligament is found in the knee joint and connects the bones of the upper and lower leg. The ACL is crucial for knee stability, but it can tear if the leg suddenly twists or if the lower leg extends forward excessively. If the ACL tears all of the way through and separates from the bone, surgical repair may be required. 

  • Meniscus tears

The meniscus is the cartilage that absorbs impact between the thigh bone and the shinbone. A sudden, forceful rotation or twist of the knee can tear the meniscus, as can lifting a very heavy object. Some older adults get meniscus tears from the degeneration of the knee due to aging. 

  • Knee fractures

The bones in the knee can become fractured due to sudden trauma (i.e. a car accident). The kneecap, or patella, is one of the knee bones that’s most susceptible to fracture. Knee fractures are severe injuries and typically require immobilization. Some knee fractures will also require surgical correction.

  • Tendinitis

Tendinitis is a condition causing inflammation of one or multiple tendons. It’s typically an overuse injury and is particularly prevalent in athletes. The patellar tendon in the knee is used when you run, kick, or jump, making it susceptible to tendinitis. 

Treatment For Knee Injuries

If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain, visit your doctor for a diagnosis. Non-surgical treatment methods such as physical therapy, medications, and regenerative injections are effective for many cases of knee pain. When these treatments fail to provide symptoms relief, knee replacement surgery may be required.

The team at Suncoast Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine offers both non-surgical and surgical treatments for knee pain. We’ll determine the best treatment plan for your needs. Contact us to book an appointment today!