Understanding Knee Injuries in Athletes
Knee injuries are the most common reason that people come to our clinic. Because they are so common, we help people find ways to prevent injuries or issues that can easily occur. When you move your knee the wrong way, avoid certain exercises, or perform specific sports, you can take a few precautions to avoid knee related injuries, pain, or discomfort. As an orthopedic surgeon in Deltona, we want you to stay informed about knee injuries and how to avoid them.
Sports that Cause Knee Injuries
Some sports involve certain movements that create more opportunities for knee-related injuries. Typically, knee injuries are caused by quick or forceful movements that you might not see coming. They are also caused by overuse of the joint, which can lead to ruptures or tears. These sports include basketball, running, soccer, skiing, and gymnastics. When you play these sports, you need to take precautions to spare your knee from injury and pain.
Common Knee Injuries
Our orthopedic surgeon treats many different injuries and issues related to your knee. Some of the most common knee injuries include:
- ACL Injury – The ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, is one of the most common injuries that athletes face. This ligament holds the thigh and shin bones together, which stabilizes the entire joint. When this ruptures or tears, you will want to be treated immediately.
- Tendonitis – This condition refers to the inflammation of the tendon. If this occurs in the knee, it is typically referring to the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone.
- Fractures – Fractures are broken bones. Most commonly, we will treat kneecap fractures that have occurred from traumatic events or blunt force injuries.
Other issues, such as patellofemoral pain syndrome, or PFPS, are also common, especially in athletes that run or play sports that involve a lot of jumping. When you have any of these issues, you will want to be treated immediately.
Ways to Prevent Knee Injuries
If you are concerned about your safety or worried that you will sustain an injury while playing your sport, you should take the necessary precautions to protect your joints.
Maintain Your Weight
Maintaining a weight that is safe and healthy for your size is also important to decrease stress on your joints. When you notice issues, you may want to check your weight, exercise more, or eat a balanced diet. This will help to decrease your chances of pressure related injuries to your knee.
Wear the Right Footwear
Correct shoes will help to maintain the correct posture and balance that will help to protect your joints. These shoes will provide you with the right amount of support you need when practicing your sport.
Stretch and Warm-Up
Keep your muscles warm when you intend on playing your sport. If you stretch the muscles in the back and front of your knee, you can work to properly stabilize the joint and prevent any potential injuries. Injury can quickly occur when your muscles are fatigued or out of practice, so you can avoid this with proper stretching.
These are a few things you should know about knee injuries that will help you live a better, healthier lifestyle. If you have suffered knee-related injuries or pain, you should contact our orthopedic surgeon in Deltona to hear how we can treat you today.