Knee injury symptoms & treatment

Your knee is a complex joint that bears a lot of weight and is vital for almost every movement. It’s not a ball and socket joint, such as those in your hips or shoulders. Instead, it’s made up of bones, tendons, cartilage and ligaments that can be damaged due to falls, collisions, sudden movement, overuse or force.

Knee injuries are common, especially among athletes, but they can happen to anyone and impact your daily life. Let our team of orthopedic specialists at Aurora Health Care help you have a speedy recovery from your knee injury. We offer expert knowledge in the latest treatment and diagnostic methods, providing you with many options to meet your needs.

Knee injury symptoms

Recognizing the signs of a knee injury can help you seek treatment promptly. Common signs include:

• Swelling: Immediate or delayed swelling can indicate a serious injury.
• Pain: Knee pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, severe pain.
• Instability: Feeling like your knee is giving way or cannot support your weight.
• Limited range of motion: Difficulty bending or straightening your knee.
• Popping sound: Hearing or feeling a pop at the time of injury, especially with ACL injuries.

How do I know if my knee injury is serious?

Knowing when a knee injury is serious can be challenging. However, if you experience severe pain, significant swelling or instability, it's essential to see your doctor for further evaluation. Other red flags include being unable to bear weight on your knee or if the appearance of your knee is abnormal.

Knee injury diagnosis

Diagnosing a knee injury typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history and how the injury occurred. They may perform specific tests to assess the stability and function of your knee. Common imaging tests include:

• X-rays: To check for fractures or bone damage.
• MRI: Provides detailed images of soft tissues like ligaments and cartilage.
• CT scan: Offers a more comprehensive view of the knee joint structure.

Knee injury treatment and therapies

Treatment for knee injuries varies based on the severity and type of injury. Common treatments include:

• Rest and ice: Resting and applying ice can reduce swelling and pain.
• Compression and elevation: Using a compression bandage and keeping your knee elevated helps control swelling.
• Therapy: Physical therapy can teach you exercises to strengthen the muscles around your knee and improve stability.
• Medications: Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage pain and swelling.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damaged ligaments or cartilage.

Recovery from a knee injury can take time. Following your doctor's advice and sticking to your treatment and rehabilitation is critical for the best possible outcome.