Diagnose

Common Knee Injuries

Injuries to the knee often involve the ligaments that connect or pad the knee. Acute injuries to the knee frequently occur in activities that require acceleration, deceleration, twisting, pivoting, cutting, and jumping.

One of the most common injuries involve the Anterior Cruciate Ligament, which connects the femur and the tibia in the center of your knee. A direct blow to the knee, or sudden stop or landing on an extended leg can result in an ACL tear with symptoms such as an audible popping sound and the knee giving way. See:ACL Tear for more information on this type of injury.

Another common injury involves the Meniscus which absorbs shock between your bones. You can idenitfy it as the pad of cartiledge on the head of the tibia (shin bone). Injuries to the Meniscus often occur as a result of a sudden twist.

Arthritis is the most common form of pain due to general wear and tear. The pain associated with arthritis of the knee usually develops slowly over time, although sudden onset is also possible. Pain may worsen after a period of inactivity, or in the morning. Activities such as walking or kneeling may exacerbate the pain. The knee may become swollen and stiff, and it may become difficult to straighten or bend the knee. The degree of pain and immobility may be affected by changes in the weather.

Arthritis can be treated with injection. In severe cases a joint replacement may be required.