Knee joints are extremely sensitive and this makes them prone to different types of injuries like the ones listed below:
- Our knee joints remain buffered from injuries by the patella or kneecap. This also increases the chances of fractures in the kneecap colliding with any object or falling down. People suffering from osteoporosis are at higher risk of fracturing their knees. Such fractures can take a serious shape and the knee has to be immobilized for healing the bone or undergoing surgery.
- A knee dislocation is characterized by improper alignment and placement of the knee bones. Traumas or structural abnormalities might cause bones to slip out of place leading to dislocation. In most cases, the knee self-heals after feeling a bit sore for some time. Otherwise, you might have to seek out the assistance of a wisconsin personal injury doctor who shall relocate the bones into their correct place.
- A meniscal tear refers to a torn cartilage in the knee. Menisci refer to two rubbery cartilage wedges positioned between the shinbone and thighbone. Undertaking sporting activities where twisting or high jumping might be involved can cause these cartilage pieces to tear suddenly. Another cause of wear and tear is the natural aging process referred to as degenerative meniscus tear. A meniscal tear is followed by swelling, pain, and tightness in the knee over the next few days.
- Tendons refer to soft tissues connecting our muscles and bones. The patellar tendon in our knee often gets injured. This can commonly be seen in middle-aged people and athletes involved in physical activities courtesy of the overstretch or tear of tendons. A tear might also be caused by hitting something or taking a fall.
- Knee inflammation or patellar tendinitis means an injury of the tendon connecting the shinbone and the kneecap. This condition is also known as jumpers’ knees and can commonly be seen in athletes engaged in extreme sports like high jumping.
- Our posterior cruciate ligament is positioned at the back of the knee and connects our shinbone to the thighbone. This ligament prevents our shinbone from moving excessively backward. An injury to the posterior cruciate ligament occurs when someone falls hand or is involved in an accident while their knee is bent.
- A collateral ligament is responsible for connecting the shinbone to the thighbone. Getting this ligament injured can pose a big cause of concern for athletes involved in contact sports. The tear to the collateral ligament occurs from a collision with an object or person.
- Bursae refer to the small fluid-filled sacs cushioning our knee joint. It also allows the ligaments and tendons to slide over the joint easily. Repeated pressure inflicted on these sacs from kneeling can cause them to become inflamed leading to a condition termed bursitis. While mostly bursitis can be self-treated through home care, in extreme cases it might require aspiration or antibiotic treatment.
Conclusion
Our knee is one of the most commonly injured joints of our body. But with proper treatment, you can cure different types of knee injuries.