The knee is the largest joint in the body. It is responsible for bearing weight and helping with movement, such as walking, running, jumping or turning. Therefore, it is at high risk of injury, especially in those who play sports or exercise heavily and continuously. If not properly cared for, it may cause problems with the knee joints in the long term.
Causes of knee injuries in sports
• Sudden twisting or rotation of the knee while playing sports such as football, basketball, tennis
• Direct impact to the knee from falling or colliding while playing
• Overuse such as long-distance running without warming up or stretching
• Weak muscles around the knee causing the knee to lack good support
• Inappropriate shoes/equipment or slippery surfaces causing loss of balance
Common knee injuries
1. ACL tear: Common in sports that require sudden stops or rapid changes of direction.
Symptoms: Sudden pain, knee swelling, unsteady walking.
2. Meniscus tear: Caused by vigorous knee rotation or excessive knee twisting.
Symptoms: Pain in the inner/outer knee, a “clicking” sound, or the knee locks and cannot bend.
3. MCL/LCL sprain: Twisting the knee to the side or hitting it from the side.
Symptoms: Pain in the inner or outer knee, loose knee, unstable.
4. Patellar dislocation: The patellar dislocation, especially from impact.
Symptoms: Pain, swelling, feeling like the patella is out of place.
5. Overuse injury: Running or playing repeatedly without enough rest.
Symptoms: Pain during use, stiffness or pain throughout the day.
Diagnosis
Your doctor may:
• Perform a physical examination and ask about your injury history
• Take an X-ray to look at your bones
• Take an MRI to look at your ligaments, discs, and soft tissues
• Take an ultrasound or, in some cases, a CT scan
Treatment options depend on the severity of your symptoms:
For mild symptoms:
• Rest
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation
• Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs
For moderate to severe symptoms:
• Knee brace
• Physical therapy
• PRP injections
• Surgery to repair tendons or cartilage if necessary
Preventing knee injuries
• Warm up and stretch before and after playing sports
• Wear shoes that are appropriate for the activity and have good traction
• Play sports appropriately, do not overdo it
• Strengthen the muscles around the knee, such as the quadriceps/hamstrings
• Get enough rest to allow the body to recover
Our Hospital Services
– Diagnosis of Knee Injuries by Sports Medicine Doctors
– Knee MRI without Waiting
– Knee Rehabilitation Program
– Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery (Arthroscopy)
For more information, please call 02-769-2000.