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A knee ligament tear occurs when one of the ligaments that stabilize the knee joint is torn or stretched. Ligaments are strong, fibrous tissues that connect bones together and provide joint stability.
The knee has four primary ligaments:
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) – The most commonly torn ligament, especially in athletes. It prevents the shinbone (tibia) from moving too far forward relative to the thigh bone (femur).
Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) – This ligament stops the tibia from shifting backward compared to the femur.
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) – Stabilizes the inner side of the knee, preventing it from bending inward.
Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) – Stabilizes the outer side of the knee, preventing it from bending outward.
Causes of Knee Ligament Tears
Causes of Knee Ligament Tears
Sports injuries: Ligament tears often occur in sports involving rapid movements, twisting, or changes in direction (e.g., soccer, football, basketball).
Falls or accidents: Falling directly onto the knee or landing awkwardly can cause a ligament injury.
Overuse or repetitive stress: While less frequent, repetitive movements or prolonged stress can lead to ligament damage over time.
Trauma: A sudden impact or forceful movement, such as a direct blow to the knee, can tear a ligament.
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Signs and Symptoms of Knee Ligament Injury
Signs and Symptoms of Knee Ligament Injury
Pain: A sharp, immediate pain is common at the moment of injury.
Swelling: The knee may swell quickly due to internal bleeding in the joint.
Instability: The knee may feel wobbly or weak, as if it might give way when you try to move.
Reduced range of motion: It may be hard to fully bend or straighten the knee.
Bruising: Bruising may develop around the knee from internal bleeding.
Treatment and Management of a Knee Ligament Tear
Treatment depends on the extent of the tear, as well as the patient's age, activity level, and general health.
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.): To manage pain and swelling for mild tears or sprains.
Physical therapy: This aims to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee, improve flexibility, and restore range of motion.
Shockwave Therapy: Since the meniscus has limited blood flow due to its avascular nature, shockwave therapy helps stimulate a healing response by promoting increased blood circulation to the area.
Surgical treatment: In cases of more significant tears, or if the tear is causing persistent symptoms, surgery may be necessary.
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