A knee injury is a medical condition characterized by damage or trauma to the knee joint. The knee serves as a vital hinge joint connecting the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia) and the smaller bone in the leg (fibula), allowing for flexibility and movement. Knee injuries can occur as a result of various factors including accidents, sports injuries, repetitive motions, and underlying medical conditions.
Common types of knee injuries include sprains, strains, ligament tears, and cartilage damage. A sprain refers to the stretching or tearing of ligaments, which are responsible for stabilizing the knee joint. On the other hand, a strain involves the stretching or tearing of muscles or tendons that support and move the knee. Ligament tears frequently occur to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), or medial collateral ligament (MCL), causing instability and pain.
Furthermore, knee injuries can result in cartilage damage, leading to conditions like meniscus tears or osteoarthritis. The meniscus is a C-shaped disc of cartilage that acts as a cushion and shock absorber in the knee joint. When injured, it can cause pain, swelling, and restricted movement. Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, can develop over time due to wear and tear or as a consequence of a previous knee injury.
The severity of knee injuries can range from mild to severe, with symptoms varying from pain, swelling, and bruising to restricted mobility and inability to bear weight. Treatment for knee injuries typically includes rest, ice or heat therapy, compression, elevation, pain management, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to repair damaged ligaments or cartilage. Timely diagnosis
