In sports and exercise, injuries happen—some much more common than others. The knees are especially susceptible to injury because of how much stress and force the joints take on every day. During activity, the knee joints must provide stability, flexibility, and strength to support the body’s weight and movement, which can result in overuse or acute injuries.
Common Knee Injuries
Injuries to the knee can affect the ligaments, bursae, tendons, cartilage, menisci, and surrounding bones forming the joint.
- Fractures
- Dislocation
- ACL injuries
- PCL injuries
- MCL injuries
- Meniscal tears
- Tendon tears
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury. Some mild knee injuries can be treated at home, while others do require medical attention.
- Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE)
- Immobilization of the joint
- Physical Therapy
- NSAID medication
- Surgery (In severe cases)
Seek medical attention if you:
- Hear a popping sound at the time of injury
- Have severe pain
- Cannot move the knee
- Cannot put weight on the knee
- Have swelling in the knee
