Knee injuries can range from mild strains to more serious conditions that require medical attention. At Piedmont Physician Network, we understand how debilitating knee pain can be and how it can affect your daily life. Whether your injury is due to an accident, overuse or a medical condition, understanding your options is the first step toward recovery.

What Are the Most Common Knee Injuries?

Knee injuries can happen to anyone. The knee is a complex joint made up of bones, cartilage, ligaments and tendons, all of which are vulnerable to injury. Some of the most common knee injuries include:

• Fractures: The bones in the knee, especially the patella (kneecap), can break due to high impact trauma, such as falls or car accidents.
• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries: Often seen in athletes, an ACL injury can occur when there is a sudden change in direction or a wrong landing from a jump.
• Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries: The PCL is typically injured by a direct blow to the front of a bent knee, such as in motor vehicle accidents or contact sports.
• Meniscal tears: The meniscus is a tough cartilage that cushions the knee joint. It can tear due to sudden twisting or from gradual wear and tear over time.
• Collateral ligament injuries: These ligaments help control the side-to-side movement of the knee. Injuries often result from direct blows to the knee, especially in contact sports.
• Tendon tears: The tendons in the knee, such as the patellar or quadriceps tendon, can be torn by falls, awkward landings or forceful impact.

Each of these injuries can lead to pain, swelling and difficulty moving the knee. Some can heal with rest and rehabilitation, while others may need surgical intervention.

How Do I Know if My Knee Pain Is Serious?

Knee pain can range from mild to severe, but it’s important to know when you should seek medical attention. If your pain started suddenly or after an injury, here are some signs that it might be serious:

• Difficulty bearing weight: If you are unable to put weight on your knee or if it feels like it might "give out," this could indicate a more serious issue, such as a torn ligament.
• Severe pain when resting: If your knee hurts even when you're not moving or putting pressure on it, this could be a sign of a more significant injury.
• Swelling or deformity: Any visible swelling, misshapen appearance or the feeling that your knee is “locking” or “clicking” could signal a dislocation, fracture or ligament injury.
• Reduced range of motion: If you're unable to fully bend or straighten your knee or if doing so causes sharp pain, it may be time to see a doctor.
• Signs of infection: Redness, warmth, fever or significant swelling around the knee could point to an infection which requires prompt medical attention.

If you experience any of these symptoms or if your knee pain lasts more than three days after home treatment, it’s important to contact a healthcare provider for an evaluation.

How Can Knee Injuries Be Treated?

Knee injuries can vary in severity, and treatment depends on the type of injury and its extent. Here are some common treatment options for knee injuries:

• RICE method: For minor injuries, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) is often the first line of treatment:
  • Rest your knee and avoid putting weight on it.
  • Ice the area to reduce swelling and pain.
  • Use a compression bandage or wrap to control swelling.
  • Elevate your knee above heart level to further reduce swelling.
• Medications: Over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking these medications for extended periods, especially if you have other health conditions.
• Bracing and immobilization: If you have a sprain, strain or minor ligament injury, your doctor may recommend a brace to stabilize the knee and prevent further damage. In some cases, crutches may be necessary to keep weight off the affected leg while it heals.
• Physical therapy: Specific exercises may help strengthen the muscles around the knee, restore range of motion and improve stability. Physical therapy is often recommended whether you need surgery or not.
• Injections: For certain conditions, such as arthritis or severe inflammation, your healthcare provider may suggest a corticosteroid injection to reduce pain and swelling.
• Surgical treatment: Some knee injuries, such as torn ligaments, fractures or severe cartilage damage, may require surgery. Surgery could involve arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure to repair torn tissues, or more extensive surgery to reconstruct ligaments or address bone fractures. Recovery from surgery usually involves physical therapy and a period of rest.

Each knee injury is unique, and the best treatment will depend on the specific diagnosis. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations to ensure the best possible recovery.

How Can I Prevent Knee Injuries?

Preventing knee injuries is possible with some simple precautions and lifestyle adjustments. Here are steps you can take to help reduce your risk:

• Warm up before exercise: Always make sure to warm up before any physical activity. Stretching your quadriceps (front thigh muscles) and hamstrings (back thigh muscles) helps prepare your knees for movement and reduces strain.
• Choose the right surfaces: Running on smooth, soft surfaces like tracks instead of hard surfaces like pavement can help reduce the impact on your knees. Similarly, walking downhill instead of running may also prevent excess pressure on the knee joints.
• Wear proper footwear: Wearing well-made, supportive shoes with good cushioning is essential. If you have flat feet, consider using shoe inserts or arch supports (orthotics) to prevent additional stress on your knees.
• Modify your activities: If you notice discomfort or are at risk for knee injury, consider reducing the intensity of your activities. Bicycling or swimming are lower-impact alternatives to running, helping to protect your knees while staying active.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Carrying extra weight puts added pressure on your knees, particularly when going up and down stairs or engaging in physical activities. Losing weight can relieve some of this pressure, making movement easier on your joints.
• Strengthen your leg muscles: Regularly strengthening the muscles that support your knees, particularly your quadriceps, can help stabilize the joint and prevent injury.

Taking these steps may help protect your knees, but if pain persists or worsens, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for further guidance.

When Should I See a Healthcare Provider for Knee Problems?

If you're experiencing knee pain or discomfort, it's essential to monitor the symptoms to know when to seek professional care. While mild pain may resolve with rest and home treatment, here are specific instances when you should see a healthcare provider:

• Sudden injury: If your knee pain began after a direct blow, fall or twist, especially during sports or an accident, it's important to have it evaluated. Early intervention can prevent further damage.
• Persistent swelling: If your knee remains swollen for more than a few days despite rest, ice and elevation, or if swelling appears without an obvious cause, seeing a healthcare provider is crucial for proper diagnosis.
• Recurring knee problems: If your knee has a history of injury or instability, and you notice repeated issues such as weakness or buckling, it’s a sign to consult a professional for further evaluation.
• Chronic pain or discomfort: If your knee pain is ongoing and affects your ability to carry out daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs or even sitting comfortably, it’s important to seek medical advice to address the underlying issue.
• Age-related concerns: If you're experiencing knee pain associated with age-related conditions, like arthritis or degenerative changes, a healthcare provider can help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Visiting a healthcare provider when these signs appear can help you get the right diagnosis and treatment, preventing long-term knee issues.

Trust Piedmont Physician Network for Knee Care

At Piedmont Physician Network, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, specialized care. Our experienced healthcare team works closely with families to deliver personalized treatment designed to help kids recover from injuries and get back to the activities they love.

From diagnosing and treating sports-related injuries to offering guidance on injury prevention, we’re here to support your musculoskeletal health. With our comprehensive approach, we focus not only on treating the injury but also on building a plan for long-term wellness.