Common Knee Injuries and How to Treat Them
Knee injuries are among the most common issues affecting athletes, active individuals, and even those with more sedentary lifestyles. The knee is a complex joint that supports much of the body’s weight, making it vulnerable to injury from overuse, trauma, or wear and tear. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or someone who enjoys occasional recreational activities, understanding common knee injuries and their treatments can help you stay active and pain-free.
1. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear
ACL injuries are one of the most common and serious knee injuries, particularly among athletes involved in sports that require sudden stops, changes in direction, or jumping, such as soccer, basketball, or skiing.
Symptoms:
- A loud popping sound at the time of injury
- Sudden instability or giving way of the knee
- Pain and swelling, usually within the first 24 hours
- Difficulty bearing weight
Treatment:
Treatment options vary based on the severity of the injury. Minor tears may be treated with physical therapy, bracing, and rest. However, a complete ACL tear often requires surgery to reconstruct the ligament. Dr. Matthewson is experienced in performing ACL reconstructions, including using the BEAR® Implant, an innovative procedure that promotes natural ligament healing.
2. Meniscus Tear
The meniscus is a crescent-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thigh bone and shin bone. Meniscus tears are common in contact sports and activities that involve twisting or pivoting, though they can also occur from wear and tear in older adults.
Symptoms:
- Pain, especially when twisting or rotating the knee
- Swelling and stiffness
- A sensation of the knee locking or catching
- Difficulty fully extending or bending the knee
Treatment:
Meniscus tears can sometimes be managed with rest, ice, and physical therapy. However, if the tear is severe or symptoms persist, surgical repair may be necessary. Dr. Matthewson offers minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery to repair or trim the damaged cartilage.
3. Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee)
Patellar tendonitis is an overuse injury that affects the tendon connecting the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone. It’s commonly seen in athletes who engage in repetitive jumping activities, such as volleyball or basketball.
Symptoms:
- Pain directly below the kneecap
- Swelling in the knee joint
- Stiffness and discomfort during physical activity
- Gradual onset of symptoms, often worsening over time
Treatment:
Early treatment typically involves rest, icing, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles. Severe or chronic cases may require platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to promote healing or, in rare cases, surgical intervention.
4. MCL and LCL Injuries
The medial collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) are two key ligaments that stabilize the knee from side-to-side movement. Injuries to these ligaments often occur from direct blows to the side of the knee, commonly in contact sports like football and rugby.
Symptoms:
- Pain on the inner (MCL) or outer (LCL) side of the knee
- Swelling and bruising
- Difficulty stabilizing the knee during movement
- Limited range of motion
Treatment:
Most MCL and LCL injuries can heal with conservative treatment, including bracing, rest, and physical therapy. In severe cases where the ligament is completely torn, surgical repair may be necessary.
5. Knee Bursitis
The bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues in the knee. Knee bursitis occurs when this sac becomes inflamed, typically from repetitive kneeling, overuse, or direct trauma.
Symptoms:
- Swelling and warmth around the affected area
- Pain and tenderness, especially when pressing on the knee
- Stiffness and limited movement in the knee joint
Treatment:
Knee bursitis is usually treated with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and occasionally corticosteroid injections. In severe or persistent cases, surgical drainage of the bursa may be necessary.
6. Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that results from the breakdown of cartilage in the knee. It is more common in older adults but can affect younger individuals who have had previous knee injuries or overuse.
Symptoms:
- Pain, especially with movement or after prolonged inactivity
- Stiffness and swelling, particularly in the morning
- Reduced range of motion
- Grinding or clicking sensations in the knee
Treatment:
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, treatment options include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and hyaluronic acid injections. In severe cases, knee replacement surgery may be considered, which Dr. Matthewson performs for patients with advanced joint degeneration.
Preventing Knee Injuries
Although some knee injuries are unavoidable, especially in contact sports, there are steps athletes and active individuals can take to reduce their risk:
- Warm up and stretch before physical activity
- Focus on strengthening the muscles around the knee, particularly the quadriceps and hamstrings
- Practice proper technique when jumping, landing, or changing direction
- Wear appropriate footwear for the activity
- Avoid sudden increases in training intensity or volume
Seeking Treatment at Pasadena Orthopedics
If you’ve experienced a knee injury or are dealing with ongoing knee pain, it’s important to seek professional evaluation and treatment to prevent further damage.
Dr. Matthewson brings years of experience in treating knee injuries and uses the latest techniques to ensure optimal recovery. Whether you need physical therapy, injections, or advanced surgical intervention, you’ll receive personalized care tailored to your specific condition and goals.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Matthewson, contact Pasadena Orthopedics today and take the first step toward a pain-free, active future.