Knee Pain

Common knee injuries include ACL tears, meniscus tears, ligament sprains (MCL/LCL), fractures, and tendonitis, often causing pain, swelling, locking, or instability. Caused by sports, falls, or overuse, treatment ranges from RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and physical therapy to surgery, depending on severity.

ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Tears: A common sports injury causing instability when stopping or changing direction.
Meniscus Tears: Damage to the cartilage acting as a shock absorber, often from twisting.
Collateral Ligament Injuries (MCL/LCL): Ligament tears on the inner or outer knee due to direct impact or twisting.
Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee): Inflammation of the tendon below the kneecap, common in jumping/running sports.
Fractures/Dislocation: Usually broken kneecaps (patella) from high-impact trauma.

Common Symptoms

Swelling and Pain: Immediate or gradual swelling.
"Pop" Sound: Often heard during an ACL tear.
Instability: A feeling that the knee is giving way or buckling.
Locking: Inability to fully straighten or bend the knee, often due to a torn meniscus.

Causes of Knee Injuries

Sudden Trauma: Falls, car accidents, or improper landing from jumps.
Sports-Related Motions: Pivoting, cutting, or sudden stopping.
Overuse: Repetitive stress causing inflammation (tendonitis/bursitis).

Treatment and Healing Time

Initial Treatment: RICE—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is vital for restoring strength and stability.
Surgery: Often necessary for severe injuries like full ACL ruptures or complex meniscus tears.
Healing Time: Minor injuries may resolve in a few weeks, while ligament reconstructions (like ACL) often require 6–12 months of rehabilitation.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention