ACL injuries

ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injuries are common knee injuries that typically occur during sports activities involving sudden stops, changes in direction, or direct impact to the knee. The ACL is a ligament that provides stability to the knee joint, preventing excessive forward movement of the tibia (shinbone) relative to the femur (thighbone). ACL injuries can range from sprains, partial tears, to complete tears.

Symptoms of an ACL injury may include a popping sound at the time of injury, immediate pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty bearing weight or walking. Prompt medical evaluation is necessary to assess the severity of the injury through physical examination and possibly imaging tests such as an MRI.

Treatment options for ACL injuries depend on several factors, including the individual's activity level, age, and associated knee injuries. Non-surgical treatments may include physical therapy to restore knee strength and stability, while surgical intervention, such as ACL reconstruction, is often recommended for individuals desiring to return to sports or experiencing recurrent instability. Rehabilitation after surgery plays a crucial role in restoring knee function and regaining strength.

Cartilage defects

Knee cartilage defects refer to damage or abnormalities in the smooth, protective cartilage that lines the ends of the bones in the knee joint. These defects can occur due to various factors, including traumatic injuries, wear and tear over time, or underlying conditions such as osteoarthritis. When knee cartilage is compromised, it can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion in the knee.

Treatment options for knee cartilage defects depend on the size, location, and severity of the defect, as well as the patient's age, activity level, and overall health. Conservative approaches may include physical therapy, pain management, and activity modifications. In cases where conservative measures are not effective, surgical interventions such as cartilage repair, microfracture, mosaicplasty, or cartilage transplantation may be recommended. These procedures aim to restore or regenerate the damaged cartilage, reduce pain, and improve knee function. Consulting with an orthopaedic specialist is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment strategy for knee cartilage defects based on individual circumstances.

Common Cartilage Defects:

• Focal Lesions
  
• Osteochondral Defects
  
• Cartilage Loss

Fractures

Knee fractures can occur as a result of direct trauma, such as a fall or a high-energy impact, or due to indirect forces that cause excessive stress on the knee joint. Knee fractures can vary in severity, ranging from hairline fractures to complete fractures with bone displacement.

Symptoms of a knee fracture include severe pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty bearing weight, and visible deformity. Prompt medical attention is crucial to diagnose the fracture accurately and determine the appropriate treatment approach.

Treatment options for knee fractures depend on the specific location and type of fracture but may include immobilization with a cast or splint, realignment of the fractured bones (reduction), and in some cases, surgical intervention to stabilize the fracture with pins, screws, or plates. Rehabilitation and physical therapy are often necessary to regain strength, mobility, and function in the knee joint following a fracture. Compliance with the recommended treatment plan and follow-up care is essential for successful recovery from knee fractures.

Common Knee Fractures:

• Patella Fracture: A fracture of the kneecap (patella) can occur due to a direct impact or a sudden contraction of the quadriceps muscles. It can be a partial or complete fracture and may result in difficulty straightening the knee.

• Tibial Plateau Fracture: This fracture occurs in the upper surface of the tibia, which forms the top of the knee joint. It is often caused by high-energy trauma, such as a car accident or a fall from a height, and can be associated with other knee injuries.

• Tibial Shaft Fracture: This fracture happens in the long bone of the lower leg, the tibia, and can extend into the knee joint. It may result from direct trauma, such as a sports injury or a motor vehicle accident.

• Femoral Condyle Fracture: These fractures involve the rounded ends of the femur (thigh bone) that articulate with the tibia in the knee joint. They can occur due to high-impact trauma or as a result of degenerative conditions like osteoporosis.

• Patellar Tendon Fracture: This rare fracture involves a break in the tendon that connects the patella to the tibia. It can occur from a direct blow to the knee or sudden, forceful contraction of the quadriceps muscle.

• Avulsion Fractures: Avulsion fractures occur when a small piece of bone is pulled away from its attachment site by a ligament or tendon. In the knee, avulsion fractures can involve the patellar tendon, quadriceps tendon, or the ligaments surrounding the knee joint.

Meniscus tears

Meniscus tears refer to injuries that occur in the  C-shaped pieces of cartilage called the menisci, which act as shock absorbers in the knee joint. These tears commonly result from twisting or pivoting motions while bearing weight on the knee, often seen in sports or activities that involve sudden changes in direction. Meniscus tears can also be associated with degenerative changes in the knee joint due to aging or wear and tear.

Symptoms of a meniscus tear may include pain, swelling, stiffness, clicking or locking sensations, and difficulty fully extending or flexing the knee. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the size, location, and type of tear.

Treatment options for meniscus tears range from conservative measures, such as rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy, to more invasive interventions like arthroscopic surgery to repair or remove the torn portion of the meniscus. The specific treatment approach depends on several factors, including the individual's age, activity level, and the characteristics of the meniscus tear.

Patellar dislocations

Patellar dislocation occurs when the kneecap (patella) is forcefully displaced from its normal position in the groove at the end of the thigh bone (femur). This injury commonly occurs during activities that involve sudden changes in direction or twisting of the knee, such as sports or falls.

Patellar dislocation can cause intense pain, swelling, and visible deformity of the knee. Individuals may also experience a feeling of the knee giving way or a popping sensation at the time of injury. Prompt medical attention is important to assess the dislocation, as well as any associated ligament or cartilage damage.

Treatment for patellar dislocations often involves reducing the patella back into its proper position through gentle manipulation. Following reduction, immobilization with a brace or cast may be recommended to support the knee during the healing process. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in rehabilitating the knee, strengthening the surrounding muscles, and improving joint stability. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary, particularly for recurrent dislocations or severe associated injuries.

Tendonitis

Knee tendonitis, also known as patellar tendonitis or jumper's knee, is a condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the tendons surrounding the knee joint. It typically affects the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). Knee tendonitis often results from repetitive stress or overuse of the tendon, such as excessive jumping or running activities. It is commonly seen in athletes and individuals who engage in activities that involve frequent jumping or quick changes in direction.

The condition manifests as pain, tenderness, and swelling around the knee, particularly just below the kneecap. Pain may worsen with activities that involve bending or straightening the knee, such as running or jumping.

Treatment for knee tendonitis involves a combination of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Physical therapy is often recommended to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and correct any biomechanical issues that may contribute to the condition. Modifying activity levels and using supportive braces or taping techniques may also help relieve symptoms. In severe cases that do not respond to conservative measures, more advanced treatment options like corticosteroid injections or, rarely, surgery may be considered. Early intervention and adherence to the prescribed treatment plan are essential for managing knee tendonitis effectively and facilitating a full recovery.