Understanding the Knee

Common Knee Injuries

Fracture

The kneecap is the most common bone fracture in the knee. Many fractures around the knee are caused by high energy trauma, like falls from heights or car collisions. If the force of impact cause the bone to break and move from its original position, surgery may be needed.

Symptoms of bone fracture in the knee include pain, tenderness, swelling, deformity at the area of the fracture, and limited movement. For minor cases, treatment usually needs cast support to limit movement until the bone fragments heal, which can take about 6 weeks. Surgery may be needed to align and stabilise the bones. Consult a doctor to understand the treatment options available.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition where swelling occurs in and around the joint. Osteoarthritis is common in the knee, where the protective cushion between the joints (cartilage) can wear out due to ageing or wear and tear. Genetic factors, joint instability and injury may also contribute to osteoarthritis. Symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, stiffness, limited movement, swelling, and at times a grinding sensation when moving.

Signs & Symptoms

In most cases where the anterior cruciate ligament is injured, a popping sound may be heard and the knee can be felt to give way shortly after. Other common signs include:

– Loss of full range of motion
– Discomfort
– Tenderness
– Pain with swelling, usually within 24 hours

If ignored, the knee may lose stability and further rigorous activities may damage the cushioning cartilage (meniscus) of the knee, leading to serious long-term problems.

Diagnosis

Your doctor may check your medical history and perform a physical examination. The following diagnostic tests may be used to further assess the injury:

– X-ray
– Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Treatment

Treatment methods vary depending on the person. For those with low activity levels, non-surgical methods such as the use of a brace to help protect the knee from instability. Physical therapy may also help to strengthen the leg muscles and aid in restoring function to the knees. Surgery may be advised depending on individual needs, eg. to aid a young athlete’s safe return to sporting activities. The goal of the surgery is to rebuild the ligament, restore knee stability and prevent permanent damage to the meniscus. Consult a doctor to understand the treatment options best suited for lifestyle needs.

Signs & Symptoms

Meniscus tears from sporting activities usually occur along with other knee injuries. Common symptoms include:

– Pain
– Swelling and stiffness
– Locking of the knee joint
– Limited range of motion

Without immediate treatment, a piece of meniscus may loosen and move into the joint, which may lead to knee instability or it becoming locked.

Diagnosis

Your doctor may check your medical history and perform a physical examination. The following diagnostic tests may be used to further assess the injury:

– X-ray
– Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Treatment

Your doctor may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDS) to help relieve the pain. If symptoms persist, your doctor may advise minor surgery such as knee arthroscopy. In this procedure, an arthroscope, a long and flexible tube with a camera, together with small surgical instruments, are inserted into your knee area through a small cut to repair the tear. Speak to your doctor to understand the treatment options available.

Signs & Symptoms

You may experience a tearing or popping sensation when a patellar tendon tear occurs. Other common signs include:

– Pain and swelling
– Inability to straighten the knee
– Tenderness
– A dent at the bottom of the kneecap
– Kneecap shifting up to the thigh
– Cramping
– Difficulty walking

Diagnosis

Your doctor may check your medical history and perform a physical examination. The following diagnostic tests may be used to further assess the injury:

– X-ray
– Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Treatment

Non-surgical methods, like using a brace and crutches to help keep the knee in position may help with healing. Physiotherapy may also help to strengthen the leg muscles. In most cases, surgery may be needed to restore knee function. The goal of the surgery is to reattach the torn tendon to the kneecap. Consult a doctor to understand the treatment options available.