Learn about the insights of this medical professional regarding knee injuries and their management, given the susceptibility of our knees to injuries due to their anatomical location.
The knee, being one of the largest joints in the body, is particularly vulnerable to injuries due to its exposed location and the considerable forces it endures during activities like walking, running, playing sports, or experiencing falls or accidents. Comprising three bones—the thigh bone, kneecap, and leg bone—lined with cartilage at their ends, the knee also contains soft structures called menisci, which enhance joint conformity among other functions. Ligaments play a crucial role in stabilizing the joint by holding the bones together, while tendons connect muscles to bones, facilitating joint movement.
While many knee injuries are minor and can be managed with home remedies such as ice or hot packs, local anti-inflammatory ointments, and over-the-counter painkillers, more severe injuries may require medical attention. Here are some common knee injuries and their management:
Injuries involving sprains and ligament tears
A sprain occurs when soft tissues are stretched, often due to a fall that results in a twisting injury to the knee. This can happen during various activities such as sports, descending stairs, or falling from a two-wheeler. Simple sprains can typically be managed with ice packs, pain relievers, compression bandages, and rest. However, if the pain is more severe, indicating a tear in the ligament, muscle, or tendon, further diagnostic imaging like X-rays or MRI scans of the knee joint may be necessary to determine the appropriate treatment. For instance, in the case of a ligament tear, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to address knee joint instability, which can impede daily activities. Additionally, this surgical procedure can address damage to knee joint cartilage and the meniscus, alleviating associated pain and swelling.
Fractures
Fractures around the knee can result from severe injuries to the kneecap, thigh bone, or leg bone. These fractures are typically serious and often necessitate surgery to restore normal daily activities. During surgery, the fractured bone is realigned and stabilized using methods such as plaster casts, wires, screws, and plates to promote proper healing and improved joint function. Early surgical intervention is often recommended to initiate early joint movement, which can lead to better functional outcomes. However, not all fractures require surgery, especially those that haven’t displaced from their original position. In such cases, non-surgical approaches like home remedies, casting, or splinting may be sufficient for treatment.
Knee dislocation
Knee dislocation represents a severe knee injury where the thigh bone and shin bone lose contact with each other. This condition can result in additional complications, including damage to blood supply and nerves within the knee. High-impact incidents such as automobile crashes, severe falls, and sports injuries are common causes of knee dislocation. Treatment typically begins with repositioning the joint following X-ray or MRI evaluation, followed by assessment of surrounding areas. Knee dislocations are managed through either open surgery (involving a large incision) or arthroscopic procedures (keyhole surgery).
It’s crucial not to overlook knee injuries, as untreated cases can escalate into more serious issues. Preventive measures for knee injuries and pain include maintaining a healthy body weight, wearing properly fitted shoes, engaging in activities like swimming and walking, participating in low-impact exercises, avoiding sudden changes in physical activity intensity, and incorporating weight training. Staying active is essential for maintaining knee strength and overall joint health.
This information includes insights from Dr. Ashok Rajgopal, Group Chairman of the Institute of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Orthopedics at Medanta.