This article was created with AI technology for the purposes of educating readers living in remote communities without convenient access to a physician or a physical therapist. The content of this article was reviewed before publication, by Canadian Orthopaedic Physiotherapist Terry Kane
The content in this article is not a substitute for seeing a licensed physician and readers are encouraged to see a physician or physical therapist as soon as possible if they experience increased pain.
The knee is one of the largest and most important joints in the body. It connects the thigh bone to the shin bone and helps people walk, run, jump, and bend their legs. The knee supports much of the body’s weight, which means it can easily become injured. Knee injuries are common in sports, exercise, falls, and everyday activities. Some injuries happen suddenly, while others develop slowly over time. Learning about common knee injuries can help people recognize symptoms and understand how these injuries are treated. Here are the top five knee injuries and how they are treated.
It is important to seek medical attention if hip pain is severe, follows an injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the leg
1. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear
The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is one of the main ligaments in the knee. It helps keep the knee stable during movement. ACL tears often happen during sports that involve jumping, quick turns, or sudden stops, such as soccer, basketball, and football.
People with an ACL tear may hear a popping sound when the injury happens. The knee often becomes swollen and painful very quickly. Walking or putting weight on the leg may feel difficult.
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the person’s activity level. Mild injuries may improve with rest, ice, physical therapy, and wearing a knee brace. Physical therapy helps strengthen the muscles around the knee. Severe ACL tears often require surgery to rebuild the ligament. Recovery after surgery can take several months and includes rehabilitation exercises.
It is important to seek medical attention if knee pain is severe, follows an injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the leg
2. Meniscus Tear
The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that cushions the knee joint. Each knee has two menisci that help absorb shock and protect the bones. A meniscus tear can happen during sports, twisting movements, or sudden changes in direction.
Symptoms include knee pain, swelling, stiffness, and trouble bending or straightening the knee. Some people feel a clicking or locking sensation in the joint.
Treatment depends on the size and location of the tear. Small tears may heal with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medicine, and physical therapy. Exercises can strengthen the knee and improve movement. Larger tears may require surgery to repair or remove damaged cartilage. After surgery, rehabilitation is important for recovery.
It is important to seek medical attention if knee pain is severe, follows an injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the leg
3. Patellar Tendonitis
Patellar tendonitis is often called “jumper’s knee.” It occurs when the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shin bone becomes irritated or inflamed. This injury is common in athletes who jump often, such as basketball and volleyball players.KneeTriage.com
People with patellar tendonitis usually feel pain just below the kneecap. The pain may become worse during jumping, running, or climbing stairs. Some people also notice stiffness or weakness in the knee.
Treatment often begins with rest and avoiding activities that cause pain. Ice packs and anti-inflammatory medicine may reduce swelling. Physical therapy exercises help strengthen the leg muscles and improve flexibility. A knee strap or brace may also provide support. Severe cases that do not improve may require injections or surgery.
It is important to seek medical attention if hip pain is severe, follows an injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the leg
4. Knee Bursitis
Bursitis occurs when one of the small fluid-filled sacs in the knee, called bursae, becomes inflamed. The bursae help reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. Knee bursitis can develop from repeated kneeling, injury, or infection.KneeTriage.com
Symptoms include swelling, pain, tenderness, and warmth around the knee. The knee may become stiff or painful when moving.
Treatment usually includes rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medicine. Avoiding pressure on the knee is important during healing. Doctors may recommend physical therapy exercises to improve movement and strength. In some cases, fluid may be drained from the swollen bursa. If the bursitis is caused by infection, antibiotics may be needed. Surgery is rarely required.
It is important to seek medical attention if knee pain is severe, follows an injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the leg
5. Knee Dislocation
A knee dislocation is a serious injury where the bones in the knee joint move out of place. This injury often happens during car accidents, sports collisions, or severe falls. Knee dislocations can damage ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels.
A person with a dislocated knee usually feels severe pain and cannot move the leg properly. The knee may look bent or out of shape. Swelling and bruising often appear quickly.
Doctors treat knee dislocations by carefully moving the bones back into place. This process is called a reduction. Afterward, the knee may be placed in a brace or splint to allow healing. Physical therapy helps restore strength and movement. Surgery is often needed to repair damaged ligaments or other tissues. Recovery can take many months depending on the severity of the injury.
It is important to seek medical attention if hip pain is severe, follows an injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the leg
5. Osteoarthritis
(Click here to learn more about knee osteoarthritis)
Preventing Knee Injuries
Many knee injuries can be prevented with healthy habits and proper training. Warming up before sports or exercise helps prepare the muscles and joints for movement. Stretching improves flexibility and reduces muscle tightness.
Strong leg muscles help support the knee joint and reduce stress during activity. Exercises that strengthen the thighs, hips, and calves can lower the risk of injury. Wearing proper shoes and using correct sports techniques are also important.
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the knees. People should avoid sudden increases in exercise intensity and take breaks when needed. Using knee pads during activities that involve kneeling may help prevent bursitis.
If knee pain is severe, lasts a long time, or causes trouble walking, medical care should be sought. Early treatment can help prevent injuries from becoming worse.
Conclusion
The knee is a hardworking joint that allows people to move and stay active every day. ACL tears, meniscus tears, patellar tendonitis, bursitis, and knee dislocations are among the most common knee injuries. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, weakness, and difficulty moving the leg. Treatments may include rest, medicine, physical therapy, braces, or surgery depending on the injury. By understanding these conditions and practicing good knee care, people can protect their knees and stay healthy.