Pulled muscle in knee cap. Knee Strain and Sprain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

13.08.202122.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are the common causes of knee strains and sprains. How can you recognize the symptoms of these injuries. What treatment options are available for knee strains and sprains. How long does recovery typically take for these knee injuries.

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Understanding Knee Strains and Sprains

Knee strains and sprains are common injuries that can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. To effectively manage these conditions, it’s crucial to understand their nature and differences.

What is a Knee Strain?

A knee strain occurs when a muscle or tendon in the knee area is stretched or torn. Tendons are fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones, playing a vital role in knee function and stability.

What is a Knee Sprain?

A knee sprain, on the other hand, involves the stretching or tearing of ligaments in the knee joint. Ligaments are tough, elastic bands of tissue that connect bones and provide stability to joints.

Can knee strains and sprains occur simultaneously? Indeed, it’s possible for an individual to experience both a strain and a sprain concurrently, which is why accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.

Common Knee Injuries Related to Strains and Sprains

Several specific knee injuries fall under the categories of strains and sprains. Understanding these can help in identifying the exact nature of the injury:

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury
Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Injury
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injury
Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury

Are these injuries equally common? While all can occur, ACL injuries are particularly prevalent, especially among athletes engaged in sports involving sudden stops or changes in direction.

Causes and Risk Factors of Knee Strains and Sprains

Understanding the causes and risk factors associated with knee strains and sprains is crucial for prevention and management. Let’s explore the primary factors contributing to these injuries:

Common Causes

Injuries: Trauma, sports-related incidents, or falls that overstretch the knee’s soft tissues
Overuse: Rapidly increasing intensity in activities like running without proper conditioning
Muscle weakness: Insufficient muscle strength to support knee joints adequately
Reduced flexibility: Tight muscles restricting joint motion and leading to functional weaknesses
Improper running form: Overpronation during running or walking, increasing stress on the knee

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase an individual’s susceptibility to knee strains and sprains:

Participation in contact sports (e.g., football, basketball, soccer)
History of previous knee strains or sprains
Use of improper footwear

Does participating in non-contact sports eliminate the risk of knee strains and sprains? While contact sports pose a higher risk, non-contact sports can still lead to these injuries, especially if proper techniques and safety measures are not followed.

Recognizing Symptoms of Knee Strains and Sprains

Identifying the symptoms of knee strains and sprains is crucial for seeking timely medical attention and appropriate treatment. Common symptoms include:

Pain and tenderness in the knee area
Stiffness, bruising, and swelling
Instability when walking
A popping noise at the time of injury

Can the severity of symptoms indicate the extent of the injury? While severe symptoms often correlate with more significant injuries, it’s important to note that even seemingly minor symptoms can sometimes indicate a serious underlying issue. Therefore, professional medical evaluation is always recommended.

Diagnosis Process for Knee Strains and Sprains

Accurate diagnosis of knee strains and sprains is crucial for effective treatment. The diagnostic process typically involves several steps:

Physical Examination

A healthcare provider will perform a variety of physical tests to assess the knee’s condition. These may include range-of-motion tests, stability tests, and palpation of the affected area.

Medical History

A comprehensive medical history helps identify potential risk factors and the circumstances surrounding the injury.

Imaging Studies

In many cases, imaging studies are necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential issues. Common imaging techniques include:

X-rays: To check for bone fractures or other skeletal abnormalities
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of soft tissues, including ligaments, tendons, and muscles

Is it possible to have multiple knee injuries simultaneously? Yes, it’s not uncommon for patients to have multiple knee injuries at once, which is why thorough diagnostic procedures are essential for developing an effective treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Knee Strains and Sprains

The treatment approach for knee strains and sprains varies depending on the severity of the injury and the specific structures involved. Let’s explore the range of treatment options available:

Conservative Treatment

For mild to moderate cases, conservative treatment is often the first line of approach. This typically involves:

RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation
Anti-inflammatory medication to manage pain and swelling
Use of knee braces for stability

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in recovery from knee strains and sprains. A structured rehabilitation program typically includes:

Exercises to improve strength and flexibility
Techniques to enhance balance and proprioception
Gradual return to activity under professional guidance

Advanced Treatment Options

For more severe cases or when conservative measures prove insufficient, advanced treatment options may be considered:

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy: This innovative treatment involves injecting concentrated platelets from the patient’s own blood into the affected area to promote healing.
Surgical Intervention: In cases of complete ligament tears or significant instability, surgical repair or reconstruction may be necessary.

How effective is PRP therapy for knee strains and sprains? While research is ongoing, many studies have shown promising results for PRP therapy in treating various soft tissue injuries, including knee strains and sprains. However, its effectiveness can vary depending on the specific condition and individual factors.

Recovery and Rehabilitation Process

The recovery journey from a knee strain or sprain is a crucial phase that requires patience, dedication, and close collaboration with healthcare providers. Understanding the recovery process can help set realistic expectations and ensure optimal healing.

Timeline for Recovery

The duration of recovery can vary significantly based on the severity of the injury:

Mild Sprain: Typically heals within six weeks with proper rest and treatment
Severe Strain or Sprain: May require three to four months for complete recovery

It’s important to note that individual factors such as overall health, age, and adherence to treatment plans can influence recovery time.

Phases of Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation for knee strains and sprains often progresses through several phases:

Acute Phase: Focus on reducing pain and inflammation
Recovery Phase: Gradually increasing range of motion and strength
Functional Phase: Incorporating sport-specific or activity-specific exercises
Return to Activity: Gradual reintroduction to normal activities or sports

Indicators of Successful Recovery

How can one determine if they’ve fully recovered from a knee strain or sprain? Key indicators of successful recovery include:

Ability to perform simple exercises (e.g., squatting, running, side-to-side motions) without pain
Restored range of motion comparable to the uninjured knee
Regained strength and stability in the affected knee
Confidence in knee function during daily activities and sports

Is it normal to experience occasional discomfort even after full recovery? While occasional mild discomfort may occur, especially during strenuous activities, persistent pain or instability should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure complete healing and prevent re-injury.

Preventing Future Knee Strains and Sprains

While not all knee injuries are preventable, adopting certain strategies can significantly reduce the risk of future strains and sprains. Implementing these preventive measures is crucial for maintaining long-term knee health and function.

Strengthening Exercises

Building strength in the muscles surrounding the knee joint can provide better support and stability. Key exercises include:

Quadriceps strengthening (e.g., leg presses, squats)
Hamstring exercises (e.g., leg curls, deadlifts)
Calf raises for lower leg strength

Flexibility Training

Maintaining flexibility in the muscles and tendons around the knee can reduce the risk of strains. Regular stretching routines should focus on:

Quadriceps stretches
Hamstring stretches
Calf stretches

Proper Technique and Equipment

Ensuring correct form during physical activities and using appropriate equipment can significantly reduce injury risk:

Learn and practice proper techniques for your sport or activity
Use appropriate footwear that provides adequate support
Consider using knee braces or supports during high-risk activities, especially if you have a history of knee injuries

Gradual Progression in Activity

Avoiding sudden increases in activity intensity or duration is crucial for preventing overuse injuries:

Follow the 10% rule: Increase your activity level by no more than 10% per week
Allow adequate rest and recovery time between intense workouts or competitions

Can cross-training help prevent knee strains and sprains? Indeed, incorporating a variety of exercises and activities in your fitness routine can help develop overall body strength and reduce the risk of overuse injuries in specific areas like the knees.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many mild knee strains and sprains can be managed with home care, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. Recognizing these scenarios is crucial for preventing further damage and ensuring proper treatment.

Red Flags Requiring Immediate Medical Evaluation

Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest and home remedies
Significant swelling or bruising around the knee
Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
Visible deformity of the knee joint
Fever accompanying knee pain, which could indicate infection

Follow-up Care

Even for seemingly minor knee injuries, follow-up care can be beneficial:

Schedule a check-up if symptoms persist beyond a few days despite home treatment
Consult a healthcare provider before returning to sports or intense physical activities
Seek guidance on prevention strategies to reduce the risk of future injuries

Is it necessary to see a specialist for all knee injuries? While not all knee injuries require specialist care, consulting with an orthopedic specialist can be beneficial, especially for recurrent injuries or those that don’t respond to initial treatment. They can provide specialized diagnosis and tailored treatment plans to address specific knee conditions.

Understanding knee strains and sprains, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for anyone involved in physical activities or sports. By recognizing the signs early, seeking appropriate care, and following through with rehabilitation, individuals can optimize their recovery and minimize the risk of future injuries. Remember, each knee injury is unique, and personalized care under the guidance of healthcare professionals is key to achieving the best possible outcomes.

Knee Strain or Sprain | Orthopedics

What is a knee strain or sprain?

A knee strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is torn or stretched. The tendons are fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones.

A knee sprain occurs when the ligaments in the knee joint stretch or tear. Ligaments connect the bones of your lower leg to the bones in your thigh together in your knee joints.

Common related conditions

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury
Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Injury
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injury
Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury

Causes of a knee strain or sprain

Injuries — trauma, sports injuries or falls that overstretch the joints and soft tissue that surround the knee and cause a knee sprain or strain.
Overuse — building up too quickly in a sport, such as running, can overwhelm the body and lead to knee strains or sprains.
Muscle weakness — muscles that can’t support the knee joints can cause a knee strain or sprain.
Reduced flexibility — tight muscles can restrict joint motion and lead to functional weaknesses at the knee joint to cause a knee strain or sprain.
Running form — overpronating when running or walking can increase stress to the knee and cause a knee strain or sprain.

Risk factors for a knee strain or sprain

Contact sports — participating in contact sports such as football, basketball and soccer put you at a higher risk for knee sprains or strains.
Prior knee strains or sprains — prior sprains or strains to the knee make you more likely to suffer another knee sprain or strain.
Improper footwear — wearing improper footwear can put additional pressure on the knee joint and cause a knee strain or sprain.

Symptoms of a knee strain or sprain

Pain and tenderness in the knee
Stiffness, bruising and swelling in the knee
Instability when walking
Popping noise when injured

Diagnosis of a knee strain or sprain

Diagnosing a knee sprain or strain is challenging due to the complexity of the knee. Your physician will perform a variety of physical tests, as well as take a full medical history, to determine the exact cause and location of the injury.

A patient could have multiple knee injuries at one time, so your doctor may order an x-ray or MRI. These imaging modalities will be able to identify what is causing the symptoms and help the provider determine the best treatment for your case.

Treatment for a knee strain or sprain

Many patients can self-treat knee strain or sprain with rest, ice, compression, elevation and anti-inflammatory medication. If the pain is moderate to severe, your physician may require you to wear a brace over the knee to provide stability. More advanced knee strains or sprains can be treated with the following treatments:

Physical therapy and rehabilitation — physical therapy is crucial to help strengthen the knee after a strain or sprain; your physical therapist will work with you to gradually add exercises that will help restore mobility in the knee.
PRP therapy (Platelet-rich plasma) — PRP therapy for knee strains or sprains is a newer therapy where your orthopedic physician will remove a blood sample from the patient, put the blood in a centrifuge to separate out the platelets (which contain growth factors that are important in healing injuries) and then inject them back into the patient at the affected site in the knee.

Recovery from a knee strain or sprain

It is important to work with your physician closely before you return to your everyday routine. When recovered, you should be able to perform simple exercises such as squatting, running, side to side motions and jumping without pain.

A mild sprain is healed after six weeks of resting and treating the knee. A severe strain or sprain can take as long as three to four months. The exact recovery time will depend on the treatment plan that your doctor and physical therapist recommend for you as well as the nature of the injury.

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Symptoms, causes, treatment options, and more

Knee strains are a common injury involving a torn muscle or tendon around the knee. Strains are often related to sports injuries.

According to a 2012 analysis, knee sprains and strains are the most common knee injuries seen in emergency rooms in the United States, accounting for 42.1% of cases.

This article explores the symptoms and possible causes of knee strains and sprains, along with available treatment options.

Knee strains affect the muscles or tendons.

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) state that they occur when a tendon or muscle stretches or tears. A tendon is a structure in the body that connects muscles to a bone.

A muscle strain around the knee is often due to overuse. The NIAMS indicate that a person may strain their knee from stressing the muscles, lifting heavy weights, or a sudden injury.

There are three grades of muscle strain based on severity.

They include:

Grade 1: A few muscle fibers are torn or stretched, and the muscle retains full strength.
Grade 2: This involves more muscle fibers being stretched and torn. The muscle becomes weaker and is more painful.
Grade 3: The most severe type of strain involving significant or complete tearing of the muscle or tendon, which causes loss of function.

There are several potential symptoms of a knee strain. According to the NIAMS, they commonly include:

cramping in the muscles around the knee
spasms in the muscles
swelling
bruising
difficulty with moving the muscles or walking

The severity of symptoms will vary according to the severity of the strain.

While strains affect the muscles and tendons, sprains affect the ligaments.

The NIAMS define a sprain as an injury to one or more ligaments from a stretch or tear. Ligaments are tough connective tissues linking bones to other bones.

There are four major ligaments of the knee joint. Of these, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) experiences the most injuries. A person can injure their ACL through contact, such as a football tackle, or without contact, which commonly occurs due to a sudden twisting motion.

Although both cause pain and swelling, knee sprain symptoms also often include difficulty putting weight on the leg, alongside pain with range of motion.

Learn more about sprains vs. strains here.

The most common causes of knee strains include:

twisting or lifting a heavy object without proper support
recent injury to the knee or muscle
overuse of the muscle

A tear to the tendons that run through the knee is a common sports injury.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), two common tendon tears in the knee include a patellar tendon tear and a quadriceps tendon tear.

Common causes of tears to these tendons include:

landing awkwardly
direct force to the front of the knee
falling
misstepping and “jamming” the knee

Often, people can treat knee strains at home.

The NIAMS and AAOS recommend following the RICE method following a knee injury, which stands for:

Rest: May include using assistive walking devices to avoid moving or putting weight on the knee.
Ice: Wrap ice with a towel and apply to the knee to help reduce swelling.
Compression: This can involve using a wrap or specialized bandage to apply pressure to the knee.
Elevation: This can help reduce swelling.

Learn more about the RICE method here.

In addition to RICE, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may reduce pain and swelling.

It is always best to consult with a doctor if a person is unsure which medication to use, or if they take regular prescription medications.

Although people may need surgery for some knee injuries, a doctor may recommend several non-surgical treatments before discussing surgical options.

According to the AAOS, some common treatments may include:

physical therapy
immobilizing the knee with a brace
using crutches

If the knee strain or sprain is severe, surgery may be necessary to restore stability and function.

Recovery time varies greatly from person to person, according to the severity of the injury and whether they underwent an operation.

The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) note that people experiencing strains will feel better after 2 weeks. However, more severe injuries can take significantly longer.

Following a knee strain or sprain, a person should avoid strenuous exercise, such as running and jumping, until symptoms improve significantly. This recommendation is to avoid the risk of further damage.

The AAOS note the following recovery times for a tendon tear:

for mild cases, it can take 3–6 weeks to recover
after surgery, it can take 6 months to a year for complete recovery

Although a person can treat most minor knee sprains and strains at home, the AAOS recommend seeking immediate medical attention for a knee injury if people experience any of the following:

severe pain at the site
hearing or feeling a popping noise or sensation at the time of injury
limping
inability to move the knee
swelling at the injury site

A person should also seek medical attention if the pain or swelling gets worse, or if new symptoms develop. Always consult with a doctor if there is no improvement in symptoms following home treatment.

To diagnose a knee strain or sprain, a doctor will ask questions about a person’s symptoms, medical history, and if they participate in sport or similar activities.

They will then examine the knee and test for strength and range of motion, alongside other tests.

Healthcare professionals will usually obtain X-rays to check for broken bones. A doctor may also order an MRI to examine the tendons and ligaments of the knee.

Preventing a knee sprain or strain is not always possible, but there are ways to reduce the chances of sustaining injury.

The NIAMS recommend the following:

eating a healthful diet
maintaining a moderate weight
wearing properly-fitted shoes
avoiding exercising or playing sports when tired or in pain
running on flat surfaces
warming up and stretching before exercise
taking part in regular exercise
wearing protective equipment when playing sports

A knee strain occurs when a muscle or tendon stretches or tears. The severity of the strain can vary from mild to severe.

Mild cases often do not require medical attention, and a person can treat them at home.

More severe cases may require immobilization, physical therapy, or surgery. Recovery times can vary based on how severe the strain is and can range from several weeks to a year.

Sprain of the knee joint – symptoms, causes, treatment

This disease is treated by a neurologist.

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Sprain of the ligaments of the knee joint – damage to the structures of the ligamentous apparatus due to excessive physical or mechanical stress on the knee. According to the localization of the injured area, they are divided into stretching of the medial, lateral, anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments.

CMDT specialist tells

Kuchenkov A.V.

Orthopedist • Traumatologist • Surgeon • Phlebologist • Sports doctor • 25 years of experience

Publication date: May 11, 2021

Verification date: January 08, 2023

All facts have been verified by a doctor.

Contents of the article

Causes

Symptoms of knee sprain

Stages of development

The pathological condition is divided into three degrees according to the severity of injuries:

Mild first degree – minimal manifestation of symptoms that disappear within the next two weeks
Medium second degree is characterized by difficulty in movement, pain, swelling. Damaged ligaments are not able to maintain the integrity of the joint
Severe third degree with complete or partial rupture of the ligaments. It occurs with severe pain, loss of joint stability. Accompanied by rupture of nerve fibers, blood vessels, bleeding into the articular cavity.

More often, damage to several ligaments is diagnosed at the same time: injuries of the internal collateral plus anterior cruciate ligament, or external collateral with damage to the meniscus, tendons. This is due to the anatomically complex structure of the external lateral section.

How to diagnose

The doctor makes a preliminary diagnosis based on the patient’s complaints, visual examination, determination of injuries and their severity. Additionally assigned:

radiography to exclude a fracture
MRI is an informative method of layer-by-layer examination in different projections of all structures – ligaments, cartilage, tendons, soft tissues
ultrasound to detect inflammation, increase the volume of synovial fluid

In some cases, arthroscopy is prescribed – an invasive, low-traumatic method for examining and treating sprains of the internal ligaments of the knee.

Restoration of the knee joint: material from the specialists of the RC “Laboratory of Movement”

Which doctor to contact

How to treat a sprain

Rehabilitation after a sprain

Consequences

Prevention

Treatment and rehabilitation after a knee sprain in CMRT clinics

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Damage to the medial collateral ligament – symptoms, causes, treatment

A neurologist deals with the treatment of this disease.

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CMRT specialist tells

Kuchenkov A.V.

Orthopedist • Traumatologist • Surgeon • Phlebologist • Sports doctor • 25 years of experience

Publication date: June 07, 2021

Verification date: January 12, 2023

All facts have been verified by a physician.