Knee injuries are prevalent, especially in sports or physical activities, and can range from mild to severe. Such injuries can significantly impair mobility, making standing or walking difficult. The sooner these injuries are addressed, the higher the likelihood of recovery and the prevention of additional damage to the tissues.

The Most Common Types of Knee Injuries

Knee injuries can vary widely, with some being minor and others more severe. Mild injuries, such as small bruises, often heal naturally. However, more serious injuries, such as fractures or torn ligaments, necessitate professional treatment and sometimes surgical intervention.

Here are some of the most frequent types of knee injuries:

Abrasions

Abrasions occur when the skin is scraped against a rough surface, like concrete or the ground. Minor abrasions only affect the outer layer of the skin and typically heal without medical intervention. If the abrasion goes deeper and causes bleeding, it requires medical attention.

For minor abrasions, you can clean the area with running water to remove dirt. After cleaning, apply an antiseptic to prevent infection and cover the area with a bandage. Be sure to change the bandage regularly, particularly if it becomes dirty or wet.

Lacerations

Lacerations are cuts or punctures that create tears or holes in the skin. While similar to abrasions, lacerations are generally deeper and may cause significant bleeding.

To treat a laceration, clean the wound thoroughly, then apply an antibiotic ointment and cover the wound with a sterile bandage. If the bleeding persists or the laceration is large, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention for professional care.

Sprains

The knee is the largest joint in the body, connecting the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). A knee sprain occurs when the ligaments (tissues that connect bones and muscles) are stretched or torn.

Mild sprains can be managed with the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevate). This involves resting the leg, applying ice to reduce swelling, wrapping the injured area with a bandage, and elevating the leg above heart level. If this approach does not alleviate the symptoms and the swelling or discoloration worsens, a visit to the doctor is recommended. The doctor may prescribe medication or perform additional assessments to determine the severity of the injury.

Torn Meniscus

A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries, often resulting from twisting or rotating the knee, especially when weight is placed on the joint.

Each knee contains two crescent-shaped cartilage pieces called the meniscus, which serve as cushions between the shin and thigh bones. When the meniscus is torn, you may experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee. Additionally, your knee movement might become restricted, and you could find it difficult to fully straighten your leg.

In some cases, a meniscus tear can be treated without surgery, particularly if symptoms are mild. However, if the pain persists and the swelling does not subside, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove the damaged cartilage.

Knee injuries can happen to anyone, especially during physical activity. If you experience a knee injury, it’s important to consult with a doctor as soon as possible to avoid further complications.

You can also take advantage of the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, which is available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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