Knee Injuries
According
to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, more
than 4.1 million people seek medical care each year
for a knee problem, making the knee the most often treated
anatomical site by orthopaedic surgeons.
Many
knee injuries occur in the ligaments. The anterior cruciate
ligament (ACL), the medial collateral ligament (MCL)
and the posterior cruciate ligament are the three ligaments
most frequently injured.
A
common cause of ACL
injuries is rotating the leg inward while the rest
of the body is turning outward. ACL injuries may also
occur when the knee is turned outward while the upper
leg is turning inward. This is most commonly seen in
athletes as they change direction. Skiers, basketball
players and athletes wearing cleated shoes, such as
football players, are among those susceptible to ACL
injuries.
MCL
and PCL injuries are usually caused by a blow to the
knee, often encountered during contact sports such as
football and soccer.
Torn
knee cartilage, usually the meniscus, is another common
sports injury. The meniscus serves as a cushion inside
the knee and is a tough, rubbery cartilage that is attached
to the ligaments. Tears in the meniscus can occur in
several ways, including a blow to the knee and twisting
or pivoting movements.
If
an injury occurs, it is important to follow sports injury treatment guidelines and obtain a prompt, accurate
diagnosis from a sports medicine physician.
Orthopaedic
surgeons use a variety of methods to treat knee injuries.
Surgical diagnosis and treatment includes
arthroscopy and procedures
like Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury and Repair.
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