You can injure your knee in a variety of ways, each of which may have a different effect. This is due to the fact that your knee joint is a complex structure made up of bones, cartilage, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues. While a swollen knee is the first sign of an injury, how it manifests itself depends on the nature of the injury. Call Redefine Healthcare injury doctor Dr. Freeman for an accurate assessment and effective knee injury treatment.
Knee injuries can occur as a result of increased stress on your knees as well as normal wear and tear, which means that the older you become, the more likely it is that you will injure a knee. At the same time, twisting your leg while participating in any activity, from aerobic dance to pick-up basketball, can result in a torn tendon or ligament. Knee pain usually occurs when you damage the cartilage or the knee joint.
Signs that you’ve injured your knee include:
- A swollen, painful knee;
- Inability to bend or fully straighten your knee;
- Popping or crackling sounds whenever you move your knee;
- A knee that gives way suddenly;
- Loss of muscle strength and flexibility;
- Redness and warmth to the touch.
Common Causes of Knee Problems
A knee injury can occur as a result of direct trauma, wear and tear, or an awkward twist. Other conditions weaken your knee, making it more prone to injury.
The following factors may make it easier for you to sustain a knee injury:
- Being overweight. Obesity causes your knees to buckle under the extra weight, which is especially noticeable while climbing stairs. Being overweight and not exercising can cause your muscles to become less flexible and lose strength. As a result, your knees may feel jerky and unstable, which might lead to an injury.
- Playing sports. If you love playing sports, jumping, bending, kicking, and twisting may cause problems with your knees. It’s especially dangerous if you overdo it or take up a physical activity after being inactive for a while. Certain sports, like running and jogging, are especially taxing on your knees.
- Working at certain jobs. Your job may be hard on your body, including your knees. Knees often develop problems if you tend to carry heavy objects for long distances. If you have to bend your knees to squat or kneel constantly while you work, you can end up with knee problems and injuries. Scrubbing floors and gardening can cause a knee injury.
- Other factors. Wearing improper shoes for your activities, whether it’s playing a sport, walking for exercise, or doing chores around the house, increases your chances of suffering a knee injury. Previous injuries increase your risks as well.
Your
knee injury doctor recommends taking painkillers like ibuprofen or prescription medicine for severe pain. Physical therapy strengthens your muscles and increases the mobility of your knee joints. Our specialists may recommend surgery such as a total joint replacement for severe fractures and ligament damage, but surgery is always the last resort. Contact your best injury doctor at Redefine Healthcare for a consultation.
Redefine Healthcare – Union, NJ
2500 Morris Ave, Suite 220,
Union, NJ 07083
(908) 503-5731
(732) 906-9600
Working Hours:
Monday: 8AM - 8PM
Tuesday: 8AM - 8PM
Wednesday: 8AM - 8PM
Thursday: 8AM - 8PM
Friday: 8AM - 8PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Payment: cash, check, credit cards.