What are the common causes of knee hyperextension. How can you identify the symptoms of ACL, MCL, and LCL injuries. What treatment options are available for knee hyperextension. How long does recovery from knee ligament injuries typically take. What preventive measures can athletes take to avoid knee hyperextension.

Understanding Knee Hyperextension and Its Impact on Ligaments

Knee hyperextension occurs when the knee joint bends backward beyond its normal range of motion, potentially causing damage to the surrounding ligaments. This condition is particularly common among athletes participating in high-impact sports. The primary ligaments affected by knee hyperextension are the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), which play crucial roles in stabilizing the knee joint.

When hyperextension occurs, these ligaments can become stretched, partially torn, or completely ruptured, leading to a range of symptoms and potential long-term consequences. Understanding the mechanics of knee hyperextension is essential for proper diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of future injuries.

The Role of ACL, MCL, and LCL in Knee Stability

The knee joint is supported by several important ligaments, each with a specific function:

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL): Prevents the tibia from sliding forward in relation to the femur
• Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL): Prevents the tibia from sliding backward in relation to the femur
• Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL): Provides stability to the inner part of the knee
• Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL): Provides stability to the outer part of the knee

When knee hyperextension occurs, these ligaments are put under excessive stress, potentially leading to injury. The ACL and PCL are particularly vulnerable to hyperextension injuries due to their position within the knee joint.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Knee Hyperextension

Identifying the symptoms of knee hyperextension is crucial for seeking timely medical attention and preventing further damage. Common signs of a hyperextended knee include:

• Acute pain in the affected knee, ranging from mild to severe
• Difficulty straightening or flexing the knee
• Swelling and stiffness around the knee joint
• Instability or weakness when walking or standing
• Audible popping or cracking sound at the time of injury

In severe cases, knee hyperextension can lead to a sprained or torn ligament, particularly affecting the ACL or PCL. It’s important to note that the severity of symptoms may vary depending on the extent of the injury.

Differentiating Between ACL, MCL, and LCL Injuries

While knee hyperextension can affect multiple ligaments, the location and nature of the pain can provide clues about which specific ligament is injured:

• ACL injuries often result in a popping sensation and rapid swelling
• MCL injuries typically cause pain on the inner side of the knee
• LCL injuries usually present with pain on the outer side of the knee

A healthcare professional can perform specific tests to determine which ligament is affected and the extent of the injury.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Knee Hyperextension

Knee hyperextension can occur due to various factors, with certain activities and conditions increasing the risk of injury. Understanding these causes can help in prevention and risk management.

Sports-Related Causes

Athletes participating in high-impact sports are particularly susceptible to knee hyperextension. Common scenarios include:

• Sudden changes in direction or stops during sports like basketball or soccer
• Improper landing techniques in gymnastics or volleyball
• Direct blows to the knee in contact sports like football or rugby
• Overextension of the knee during kicking motions in martial arts or soccer

Non-Sports Related Causes

Knee hyperextension can also occur in everyday situations, such as:

• Falling or tripping, especially on uneven surfaces
• Car accidents, particularly those involving sudden deceleration
• Work-related injuries in physically demanding jobs

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase an individual’s susceptibility to knee hyperextension:

• Previous knee injuries or surgeries
• Weak or imbalanced leg muscles
• Poor flexibility or range of motion in the knee joint
• Overweight or obesity, which places additional stress on the knee
• Genetic factors affecting ligament strength or joint laxity

Female athletes are generally at a higher risk of ACL injuries due to anatomical and hormonal factors. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals and healthcare providers develop targeted prevention strategies.

Diagnostic Procedures for Knee Hyperextension Injuries

Accurate diagnosis of knee hyperextension and associated ligament injuries is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan. Healthcare providers employ various diagnostic techniques to assess the extent of the injury and determine the best course of action.

Physical Examination

The initial step in diagnosing knee hyperextension typically involves a thorough physical examination. During this assessment, the healthcare provider will:

• Evaluate the range of motion of the affected knee
• Apply pressure to different areas of the knee to check for pain or instability
• Perform specific tests designed to assess ligament integrity, such as the Lachman test for ACL injuries
• Compare the injured knee to the unaffected knee to identify any abnormalities

Imaging Studies

To obtain a more detailed view of the knee structures, imaging studies may be ordered:

• X-rays: These can help rule out fractures or other bone-related issues
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Provides detailed images of soft tissues, including ligaments, tendons, and cartilage
• Ultrasound: Can be used to visualize soft tissue injuries and guide treatment procedures

Arthroscopy

In some cases, a minimally invasive procedure called arthroscopy may be used for both diagnostic and treatment purposes. This involves inserting a small camera into the knee joint to directly visualize the internal structures and assess the extent of the injury.

By combining these diagnostic methods, healthcare providers can accurately determine the severity of the knee hyperextension injury and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs.

Treatment Options for Knee Hyperextension and Ligament Injuries

The treatment approach for knee hyperextension and associated ligament injuries depends on the severity of the injury, the specific ligaments affected, and the individual’s overall health and activity level. Treatment options range from conservative measures to surgical interventions.

Conservative Treatment

For mild to moderate knee hyperextension injuries, conservative treatment is often the first line of approach. This may include:

• RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) to reduce pain and swelling
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain management
• Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion
• Bracing or taping to provide support and stability to the knee
• Activity modification to avoid aggravating the injury

Surgical Interventions

In cases of severe ligament tears or when conservative treatment fails to provide adequate relief, surgical intervention may be necessary. Common surgical procedures include:

• ACL reconstruction using grafts from the patient’s own tissue or donor tissue
• MCL or LCL repair or reconstruction, depending on the extent of the injury
• Arthroscopic procedures to address associated meniscal or cartilage injuries

The choice of surgical technique depends on various factors, including the specific ligament injured, the patient’s age and activity level, and the surgeon’s expertise.

Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

Regardless of whether conservative or surgical treatment is pursued, rehabilitation and physical therapy play a crucial role in recovery from knee hyperextension injuries. A comprehensive rehabilitation program typically includes:

• Exercises to improve knee strength, stability, and range of motion
• Proprioception training to enhance balance and coordination
• Gait training to ensure proper walking mechanics
• Sport-specific exercises for athletes returning to their respective activities

The duration and intensity of rehabilitation vary depending on the severity of the injury and the individual’s goals. Close collaboration between the patient, physical therapist, and treating physician is essential for optimal outcomes.

Recovery Timeline and Expectations After Knee Hyperextension Treatment

Recovery from knee hyperextension and associated ligament injuries can vary significantly depending on the severity of the injury and the chosen treatment approach. Understanding the typical recovery timeline and setting realistic expectations is crucial for patients and their support systems.

Conservative Treatment Recovery

For mild knee hyperextension injuries treated conservatively:

• Initial recovery: 2-4 weeks of rest and limited activity
• Gradual return to normal activities: 4-8 weeks, depending on progress
• Full recovery: 2-3 months for most individuals

Surgical Treatment Recovery

For severe injuries requiring surgical intervention, the recovery timeline is generally longer:

• Initial post-operative period: 1-2 weeks of rest and wound healing
• Early rehabilitation: 2-6 weeks, focusing on regaining range of motion and basic strength
• Progressive rehabilitation: 6-12 weeks, with increasing intensity of exercises
• Return to light activities: 3-4 months post-surgery
• Return to sports or high-impact activities: 6-12 months, depending on the specific sport and individual progress

It’s important to note that these timelines are general estimates, and individual recovery can vary. Factors such as age, overall health, adherence to rehabilitation protocols, and the specific nature of the injury can all influence recovery time.

Long-Term Prognosis

The long-term outlook for individuals who have experienced knee hyperextension injuries is generally positive, especially with proper treatment and rehabilitation. However, some considerations include:

• Increased risk of re-injury or development of osteoarthritis in the affected knee
• Potential need for activity modifications or ongoing maintenance exercises
• Possible long-term use of supportive devices during high-risk activities

Regular follow-up with healthcare providers and maintaining a consistent exercise regimen can help minimize long-term complications and maintain optimal knee function.

Preventing Knee Hyperextension: Strategies for Athletes and Active Individuals

While not all knee hyperextension injuries can be prevented, there are several strategies that athletes and active individuals can employ to reduce their risk of experiencing this type of injury. Implementing these preventive measures can help maintain knee health and longevity in sports and daily activities.

Proper Training and Technique

Focusing on correct form and technique during athletic activities is crucial for preventing knee hyperextension:

• Learn and practice proper landing techniques for jumping sports
• Develop awareness of knee positioning during pivoting and cutting movements
• Work with coaches or trainers to refine sport-specific techniques that protect the knee

Strength and Conditioning

Building strength and stability in the muscles surrounding the knee can provide better support and reduce the risk of injury:

• Incorporate exercises that target the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles
• Focus on core strength to improve overall body control and balance
• Include plyometric exercises to enhance explosive power and landing stability

Flexibility and Mobility

Maintaining good flexibility and joint mobility can help prevent overextension of the knee:

• Regularly stretch the muscles of the legs, particularly the hamstrings and quadriceps
• Practice dynamic warm-up routines before engaging in sports or intense physical activities
• Consider incorporating yoga or other flexibility-focused exercises into your routine

Protective Equipment

Using appropriate protective gear can provide additional support and reduce the risk of knee hyperextension:

• Wear properly fitted athletic shoes with good support
• Consider using knee braces or supports during high-risk activities, especially if you have a history of knee injuries
• Use appropriate padding or protective equipment specific to your sport

Gradual Progression and Recovery

Avoiding overtraining and allowing for proper recovery can help prevent fatigue-related injuries:

• Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your training
• Include rest days in your training schedule to allow for adequate recovery
• Listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain or discomfort

By implementing these preventive strategies, athletes and active individuals can significantly reduce their risk of experiencing knee hyperextension injuries. However, it’s important to remember that no prevention method is foolproof, and injuries can still occur despite best efforts. Regular check-ups with sports medicine professionals and staying informed about proper training techniques can further enhance injury prevention efforts.

What is a Hyperextended Knee? Symptoms, Treatments, and More

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

In this Article

• How To Know if You Have Knee Hyperextension
• Causes of Knee Hyperextension
• Diagnosing Knee Hyperextension
• Treating Knee Hyperextension Symptoms
• Surgery
• Recovery from Knee Hyperextension

A hyperextended knee — or knee hyperextension — develops when the knee joint bends the wrong way and damages the ligaments near the knee. The condition is common in athletes who play high-impact sports. It can be treated using methods including rest, pain medication, and sometimes, surgery.

Symptoms of a hyperextended knee include the following:

• Knee Pain. You may feel mild to severe pain in your affected knee.
• Poor Movement. You may find straightening or flexing your affected knee to have become difficult.
• Swelling. Swelling and stiffness may develop around your affected knee.
• Poor Stability. Your affected knee may feel weak, making it difficult for you to walk or stand.

In severe cases, you may get a sprained ligament near the knee. The ligaments that could become sprained include the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and the PCL (posterior cruciate ligament).

Your knee is said to have hyperextended when your knee joint bends backward and this causes tissue damage and swelling. Most of the damage happens in the ACL and the PCL, which are the two ligaments in the middle of the knee. These ligaments connect the shinbone to the thighbone and help control the movement of your shinbone.

A bad fall or a bad landing after a jump can cause a hyperextended knee. While this condition can affect anyone, athletes are more likely to perform activities that damage their ligaments. This is because knee hyperextension is often triggered by a direct hit to the knee when playing high-impact sports like gymnastics, basketball, and soccer.

Female athletes have a higher chance of getting an ACL injury. Also, people with weak muscles or previous knee injuries or those overweight or obese may also have such knee problems. 

Knee hyperextension can also cause small pieces of bone being broken off the main bone in young children.

To check if you have a hyperextended knee, your doctor will perform a physical exam: the doctor will ask you to bend your knee at different angles as they apply pressure and check for movement. They’ll use a needle to drain your knee if it’s tense or swollen with blood. Your doctor may also ask you to get an x-ray to understand if you’ve broken any bones and an MRI scan to check for injuries to the ligament.

Based on the results of these tests, your doctor may diagnose you as having a sprained ligament. In severe cases, the ligament is either partially torn or split into two pieces. More severe sprained ligaments often require surgery.

You can follow these treatment measures to heal a hyperextended knee:

• Rest. Take a break from sports and physical activities.
• Ice. Ice your hyperextended knee to help reduce swelling.
• Medication. You can take anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain. 
• Lift the leg. Keep the leg elevated above the heart when possible.
• Compression. Use a compression wrap to reduce swelling.

If you have a severe sprain, you may need ligament repair surgery, where a piece of tendon from somewhere else in your knee or hamstring is taken and used to replace the damaged ligament.

While healing from this surgery, you may need to do physiotherapy exercises to help strengthen the leg muscles. You can also wear a knee brace to improve joint stability as you recover.

In more than 80% of cases, ACL surgery fully restores knee functionality. Your doctor may recommend further ligament surgeries if the first attempt is unsuccessful. But, later surgeries can be more difficult and have poorer long-term results.

Overall, some pain and swelling can remain after this surgery. This may be the case if other knee injuries, like a tear in the cartilage, have happened at the same time as the knee hyperextension.

In some cases, better motion at the knee joint after surgery can have good results. This is because the tendon used to replace the torn ligament will stretch over time. Surgery comes with a small chance of getting an infection, long-term knee stiffness, and blood clots in the leg. 

In any case, even minor knee injuries can increase your chance of getting another knee injury in the future. To lower this risk, you can join injury prevention programs.

Your expected recovery time depends on the severity of your injury, but physiotherapy can help speed things up. Keep in mind that the recovery speed of each person is different.

Mild sprains often feel better after two weeks of normal treatment measures like rest. But, recovery from ligament repair surgery takes around six months. Your doctor will advise you to do physiotherapy exercises during this time, and they may also ask you to use crutches. You might be able to resume sports only after six months.

If you start to use your knee before it’s fully healed, you could cause permanent damage.

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What is a Hyperextended Knee? Symptoms, Treatments, and More

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

In this Article

• How To Know if You Have Knee Hyperextension
• Causes of Knee Hyperextension
• Diagnosing Knee Hyperextension
• Treating Knee Hyperextension Symptoms
• Surgery
• Recovery from Knee Hyperextension

A hyperextended knee — or knee hyperextension — develops when the knee joint bends the wrong way and damages the ligaments near the knee. The condition is common in athletes who play high-impact sports. It can be treated using methods including rest, pain medication, and sometimes, surgery.

Symptoms of a hyperextended knee include the following:

• Knee Pain. You may feel mild to severe pain in your affected knee.
• Poor Movement. You may find straightening or flexing your affected knee to have become difficult.
• Swelling. Swelling and stiffness may develop around your affected knee.
• Poor Stability. Your affected knee may feel weak, making it difficult for you to walk or stand.

In severe cases, you may get a sprained ligament near the knee. The ligaments that could become sprained include the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and the PCL (posterior cruciate ligament).

Your knee is said to have hyperextended when your knee joint bends backward and this causes tissue damage and swelling. Most of the damage happens in the ACL and the PCL, which are the two ligaments in the middle of the knee. These ligaments connect the shinbone to the thighbone and help control the movement of your shinbone.

A bad fall or a bad landing after a jump can cause a hyperextended knee. While this condition can affect anyone, athletes are more likely to perform activities that damage their ligaments. This is because knee hyperextension is often triggered by a direct hit to the knee when playing high-impact sports like gymnastics, basketball, and soccer.

Female athletes have a higher chance of getting an ACL injury. Also, people with weak muscles or previous knee injuries or those overweight or obese may also have such knee problems. 

Knee hyperextension can also cause small pieces of bone being broken off the main bone in young children.

To check if you have a hyperextended knee, your doctor will perform a physical exam: the doctor will ask you to bend your knee at different angles as they apply pressure and check for movement. They’ll use a needle to drain your knee if it’s tense or swollen with blood. Your doctor may also ask you to get an x-ray to understand if you’ve broken any bones and an MRI scan to check for injuries to the ligament.

Based on the results of these tests, your doctor may diagnose you as having a sprained ligament. In severe cases, the ligament is either partially torn or split into two pieces. More severe sprained ligaments often require surgery.

You can follow these treatment measures to heal a hyperextended knee:

• Rest. Take a break from sports and physical activities.
• Ice. Ice your hyperextended knee to help reduce swelling.
• Medication. You can take anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain. 
• Lift the leg. Keep the leg elevated above the heart when possible.
• Compression. Use a compression wrap to reduce swelling.

If you have a severe sprain, you may need ligament repair surgery, where a piece of tendon from somewhere else in your knee or hamstring is taken and used to replace the damaged ligament.

While healing from this surgery, you may need to do physiotherapy exercises to help strengthen the leg muscles. You can also wear a knee brace to improve joint stability as you recover.

In more than 80% of cases, ACL surgery fully restores knee functionality. Your doctor may recommend further ligament surgeries if the first attempt is unsuccessful. But, later surgeries can be more difficult and have poorer long-term results.

Overall, some pain and swelling can remain after this surgery. This may be the case if other knee injuries, like a tear in the cartilage, have happened at the same time as the knee hyperextension.

In some cases, better motion at the knee joint after surgery can have good results. This is because the tendon used to replace the torn ligament will stretch over time. Surgery comes with a small chance of getting an infection, long-term knee stiffness, and blood clots in the leg. 

In any case, even minor knee injuries can increase your chance of getting another knee injury in the future. To lower this risk, you can join injury prevention programs.

Your expected recovery time depends on the severity of your injury, but physiotherapy can help speed things up. Keep in mind that the recovery speed of each person is different.

Mild sprains often feel better after two weeks of normal treatment measures like rest. But, recovery from ligament repair surgery takes around six months. Your doctor will advise you to do physiotherapy exercises during this time, and they may also ask you to use crutches. You might be able to resume sports only after six months.

If you start to use your knee before it’s fully healed, you could cause permanent damage.

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Knee pain – Clinic of Neurology and Orthopedics

Knee pain: the most likely causes and effective treatments for the knee joint

Did you know that…

• Degenerative joint diseases can progress over several decades. Late referral to a specialist is often associated with ignoring the first symptoms.
• Pain and severe discomfort are not normal at any age, and therefore their appearance is a good reason to get examined and take care of your health.

Most often, pain in the joints is associated with the deterioration of the cartilage tissue, which, due to any reason, does not receive proper nutrition and is gradually destroyed, ceasing to function as a natural shock absorber.

One of the most likely causes is the patient’s sedentary lifestyle. It works as follows:

• A network of capillaries is responsible for cartilage nutrition, which is activated during joint movement. Each step is accompanied by the absorption of tissue fluid, which has everything necessary to maintain the “performance” of the cartilage.
• Lack of physical activity leads to deterioration of blood circulation and cartilage nutrition. Oxygen and nutrients cease to enter the joint, which causes the development of arthritis and arthrosis.
• In some cases, pain in the knee joint indicates damage to the hip joint, occurs against the background of extreme load and requires treatment of the underlying disease.

Why does pain occur?

Pain in the knee joint is not a disease, but a symptom indicating the course of a pathological process. Contrary to popular belief, pain can be caused not only by arthritis or arthrosis of the knee, but also by a number of other conditions, including:

• osteoarthritis;

Only an orthopedist can find the real cause of the pain. In order to make a final diagnosis, the specialist will study the history, analyze the symptoms, conduct motor tests, and in some cases send the patient for an X-ray or MRI.

You can make an appointment with an orthopedist by calling +7 (347) 216-00-22

Arthrosis of the knee – a disease of the elderly? Main symptoms

More than half of patients complaining of pain in the knee joint is associated with the progression of arthrosis.

Arthrosis is a degenerative-dystrophic disease of the cartilage, which, in the absence of adequate and timely treatment, leads to the exposure of the bone heads and, as a result, to pain and impaired joint mobility.

What do you need to know about this disease?

• Osteoarthritis of the knee can progress at different rates. From the first symptoms to disability, depending on the patient’s health, lifestyle and the presence / absence of treatment, it takes several years or several decades.
• Osteoarthritis of the knee is one of the most common causes of disability worldwide.
• 20% of people over 55 have this diagnosis, but every year the disease “gets younger”. Today, among the patients there are boys and girls who have barely crossed the border of 25 years. One of the main reasons is a sedentary lifestyle.

This pathology is accompanied by the appearance of one or more symptoms, including decreased mobility in the joint in the morning, pain and discomfort after exercise, crunching when bending and extending the knees, meteosensitivity (increased symptoms in bad weather).

Treatment of the knee: a brief overview of effective conservative methods

Treatment of arthrosis diagnosed at an early stage involves the use of gentle methods of correction of the condition and is more effective. The third stage of the pathology is likely to require surgical intervention, which consists in cutting off part of the bone or in the installation of an endoprosthesis. Whether it is worth contacting an orthopedic doctor or you can get by with the constant use of painkillers, it’s up to you.

Comprehensive conservative treatment of the knee joint

We do everything to delay the operation or completely save the patient from surgical intervention, so treatment begins with the appointment of conservative therapy, which includes:

• The correct mode of exercise and rest.
• Therapeutic diet for overweight patients to reduce stress on the joint.
• Drug treatment of knees with hormonal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, chondroprotectors.
• Injection of drugs into the joint capsule, including plasmolifting (injection of own platelet-rich plasma) and the introduction of a synovial fluid prosthesis.
• Physiotherapy, massage, acupuncture and remedial gymnastics.

The “Clinic of Neurology and Orthopedics” has everything you need to alleviate the patient’s condition and slow down the progression of the disease. Pain relief, improvement of joint mobility and restoration of cartilage tissue is the result we are striving for.

Next, let’s talk about some of the treatments in a little more detail.

Therapeutic gymnastics

The purpose of performing physical exercises recommended by an orthopedist is to relieve pain during remission, reduce inflammation, slow down cartilage abrasion by strengthening the muscles of the lower leg and thigh, maintaining the elasticity of ligaments and tendons, and preventing muscle atrophy. Physical therapy exercises should be carried out in a continuous course. The first tangible results can be seen after 2 weeks of daily exercise.

Physiotherapy and massage

Orthopedist’s appointment can end with a referral for magnetotherapy, UHF, phono- and electrophoresis. Sulfur and hydrogen sulfide baths have a good effect on the state of the joints.

Wellness massage for knee arthrosis is performed on both legs, the full course is 10-12 sessions. This method of treatment is considered as an auxiliary and is prescribed in conjunction with drug therapy, but is contraindicated during an exacerbation and in the presence of inflammation.

Synovial fluid prosthesis and plasmolifting

The main function of synovial fluid is to ensure smooth sliding of articular surfaces. A lack of fluid or a change in its composition leads to malnutrition of the cartilage and its destruction.

Synovial fluid prosthesis, or, in simple terms, a preparation based on hyaluronic acid, which is injected directly into the joint capsule, helps prevent abrasion and destruction of cartilage. Such an injection allows you to remove pain and restore mobility to the joint. The effect of the procedure lasts up to a year, then the injection should be repeated.

The second innovative method of getting rid of pain in the knee joint is plasmolifting. The patient’s own plasma is purified and enriched with platelets responsible for tissue regeneration, and then injected into the problem joint.

It is scientifically proven that plasmolifting:

• Reduces pain and inflammation.
• Repeatedly accelerates tissue regeneration.
• Slows down the process of bone and cartilage destruction.
• Improves joint mobility.

Whether an injection of plasma or hyaluronic acid will work depends largely on the skill of the person doing it. To obtain a pronounced and lasting result, it is important to choose the right injection site, therefore, all manipulations of such a plan in the “Clinic of Neurology and Orthopedics” are performed by doctors with appropriate qualifications and extensive experience.

The methods of treatment of the knee joint listed in this article have a number of contraindications, so a consultation with an orthopedic doctor is mandatory before any medical manipulation. You can make an appointment with a specialist on the website or by calling +7 (347) 216-00-22. Be healthy!

Knee pain: causes, treatment, which doctor to contact

According to statistics, about 80% of people have experienced knee pain. Moreover, a pronounced pain syndrome may be accompanied by other symptoms: a feeling of weakness (as if the legs give way), clicking when moving, stiffness, inability to straighten the leg.

What causes pain in or under the knee? Is there an effective treatment? Which doctor deals with this problem?

Causes of knee pain

The most common reason for knee pain is an injury:

• A fracture of the knee joint is accompanied by very strong, sharp pain. It becomes more intense if you press on the damaged area. With a fracture, the joint swells, so you won’t be able to bend your knee.

• A dislocation is a displacement of bones. Accompanied by swelling of the knee, severe pain syndrome. A dislocation is not as harmless as it might seem. With an injury of this type, the joint capsule is often torn, tendons, nerves, and ligaments are damaged. If you do not turn to an orthopedic traumatologist in time or completely ignore a visit to a specialist, a habitual dislocation may develop. In this case, the joints and bones can move even with a slight load.

• When ligaments and tendons are torn, a crunch is heard, clicks are clearly distinguished during movement. The joint becomes too mobile. The pain is sharp, as if “shooting”. Theoretically, a person can move around, but when walking, the pain in the knee will be more intense.

• A meniscus tear most often involves a strong blow, as a result of which the knee joint begins to hurt, lose mobility, and swell. A torn meniscus often does not act as an independent injury: it is diagnosed in 75% of cases of knee joint injuries. A torn meniscus often occurs in athletes, dancers, and ballet dancers. But such damage also occurs in everyday life – for example, with a sharp movement, heavy physical exertion or a fall.

By the way, about sports. Runners’ knees often hurt – there is even such a thing as runner’s knee syndrome. Runner’s knee syndrome is a common sports injury in which the cartilage tissue of the patella softens and deforms. The injury occurs as a result of high loads on the knees. By the way, it affects not only runners, but also cyclists, fans of hiking, football players.

Which doctor treats knee pain?

If you are worried about knee pain, the logical question is: which doctor to make an appointment with. In case of pain caused by an injury, you should contact an orthopedic traumatologist as soon as possible.

The doctor will conduct a survey and examination of the patient, to clarify the diagnosis, he will send for examination. By the way, with knee injuries, only x-rays are not always prescribed. For example, when a meniscus is torn, it is not informative, so the patient is referred for an ultrasound of the joint or an MRI of the joints. An MRI will allow you to fully “see” the joint and assess its condition. In case of a fracture and dislocation of the knee, an x-ray is recommended (usually in several projections), in some cases an MRI is prescribed.

In addition, to clarify the diagnosis, the results of laboratory tests are required – most often this is a general and biochemical blood test.

Treatment of knee pain

To prescribe effective treatment, you must first identify the cause of the pain syndrome. For example, when a meniscus is torn, anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed, the knee is fixed with a bandage. Please note that in the treatment of any knee injury, it is important to ensure that the injured area has complete rest. Splints and splints, which are needed for immobilization, will help reduce the load on the joint. Taping is also actively used – the so-called fixation of the joint with adhesive tapes-teips.

Additionally, the patient is prescribed painkillers that stop the pain syndrome. It can be tablets, ointments or gels.

In some cases, surgery is required. So, with a complete rupture of the ligaments of the knee joint, a low-traumatic operation is performed – arthroscopy.

Massage, reflexology, therapeutic exercises also help to cope with pain, strengthen the knee joint, speed up recovery. These methods “work” due to the fact that they help improve muscle tone, activate blood circulation in the knee joint.

The complex of services in the field of traumatology and orthopedics is provided by experienced specialists of the Scandinavian Health Center. The doctors of our multidisciplinary medical center treat injuries and post-traumatic complications, arthrosis, dislocations, bursitis, etc. In our clinic, you can undergo the necessary examinations, visit a physiotherapist, masseur.