Different Types of Knee Injuries and Their Causes
posted by Michael Carlson, MD | September 4, 2017
Most often due to sports, recreational activities, work tasks or home projects, knee injuries of some sort can happen to anyone. Knee injuries can be a result of anything from basic wear-and-tear or overuse injuries to specific, acute injuries.
Knee Anatomy
The knee is made up of four primary anatomical elements: the bones, cartilage, ligaments and tendons.
Acute Injuries
Acute injuries, or sudden injuries, are the most common cause of knee problems. They can be caused by a blow to the knee or from twisting, bending or falling on the knee. Symptoms can range from pain and bruising to numbness, weakness, tingling and other symptoms. These injuries include:
Overuse Injuries
Overuse injuries develop after repeated activities or pressure on the knee. Activities like stair climbing, riding a bike, jogging or jumping can stress the joints and lead to these injuries, which include:
Knee Conditions
In some cases, knee problems can occur without being related to an injury or specific overuse. These are often due to specific knee conditions:
Treatment methods range from basic first aid and rest to therapy, medicine and surgery in some cases. This will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injury, location, your health and other factors. If you have a knee issue, your doctor will recommend a course of treatment.
Sources:
“Knee Problems and Injuries – Topic Overview.” WebMD. http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/knee-pain/knee-problems-and-injuries-topic-overview#1
“Common Knee Injuries.” American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.” http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00325
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. You should always consult your doctor before making decisions about your health.