KNEE INJURIES
A detailed history of your injury is always the important first step towards forming a diagnosis and subsequent management plan. The type of sport is important and whether there was contact involved. Some injuries may be through contact and direct stress to the knee for example during a rugby maul or football tackle. Whilst other injuries can occur through a non-contact sudden change in direction for example cutting inside an opponent during football, twisting whilst skiing or snowboarding, or a quick turn during basketball or netball.
A comprehensive physical examination is essential, and this may need to be repeated over periods of time to assess recovery and healing. Guided physiotherapy will help to reduce sweeling and regain range of motion in the knee.
The most useful initial investigation is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). This scan uses a magnet to visualise the different types of anatomy in and around the knee and will confirm the type of injury sustained.
A further appointment is required to assess recovery and the benefits gained from the physiotherapy and rehabilitation so far and to review the MRI. If surgery is indicated then most commonly it is for these types injuries:
- Anterior cruciate ligament rupture
- Acute meniscal tears
- Acute cartilage damage
- Combined ligament injuries
Some of the above injuries can be treated without surgery and the majority of other acute knee injuries will heal with rehabilitation. It is important to ensure that there is a guided return to sport and many of the activities and exercises in the rehabilitation section will be relevant to you.
Preventing re-injury or injuries to your other knee or will be an important part of your rehabilitation, click here for my blog on this.
