Knee Injuries
Knee Injuries: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Knee injuries are common, particularly among athletes and individuals involved in high-impact activities. These injuries can range from mild strains to severe ligament tears, often requiring prompt medical attention to prevent long-term damage.
Causes
Knee injuries frequently occur due to:
- Trauma: Direct blows to the knee, such as those experienced in car accidents or sports collisions.
- Twisting Movements: Sudden twists or pivots, common in sports like football, basketball, and skiing, can lead to ligament tears.
- Overuse: Repetitive stress from activities like running can cause chronic conditions like tendinitis.
- Chronic Conditions: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can weaken knee structures, increasing the risk of injury.
Symptoms
Symptoms of knee injuries vary depending on the affected structure:
- Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL): Pain, swelling, instability, and a “pop” sound at the time of injury.
- Meniscus Tears: Severe pain, swelling, and a “locked” knee.
- Tendon Injuries: Pain and swelling, with difficulty lifting the knee.
- Bursitis: Swelling over the kneecap, pain when bending, and redness.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Physical Examination: Assessing range of motion and joint stability.
- Imaging Tests:
- X-rays: Rule out fractures.
- MRI: Evaluate soft tissue damage (ligaments, menisci).
- Knee Aspiration: Remove fluid to check for infection or blood.
Treatment
Treatment options depend on the severity of the injury:
- Conservative Management: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) for mild injuries.
- Physical Therapy: Essential for rehabilitation, focusing on strength and range of motion exercises.
- Surgical Intervention: Required for severe tears or structural damage, followed by rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation After Surgery
Rehabilitation is crucial for optimal recovery:
- Early Mobilization: Begins immediately after surgery to prevent stiffness.
- Strengthening Exercises: Quadriceps sets, straight leg raises, and knee straightening exercises.
- Gait Training: Adjusts walking patterns to reduce stress on the knee.
Conclusion
Knee injuries require prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment to prevent long-term complications. Understanding the causes and symptoms helps in early intervention, while rehabilitation plays a key role in restoring function and strength.
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At DrStemCellsThailand (DRSCT)‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, we emphasize comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for managing various health conditions. If you have questions about Knee Injuries or would like more information on our services, consult with our experts today!
