Knee injuries are quite common in active/athletic individuals. Injuries to the knee range from "cartilage" (meniscus) tears to ACL tears (Anterior Cruciate Ligament). Many individuals injure their knees playing anything from softball to frisbee to skiing.

Common Injuries

There are many parts of the knee that can be injured, but the most common are injuries to the meniscus or ligaments. The knee has ligaments on either side of the knee joint as well as two cruciate ligaments inside the knee. For more information on ACL tears and what to expect, visit our online ACL handbook.

to view ACL handbook.

click links below for descriptions.

• Ligaments
• Meniscus
• Tendonitis
• Arthritis

Signs and Symptoms

With serious knee injuries, one would look for signs of moderate to severe swelling, discoloration, pain, locking or catching episodes or an "unstable" feeling knee. Ligament or meniscus tears sometimes require surgical intervention for repair or resection (partial removal).

Initial Care

The first thing to do with an injury presenting with these signs and symptoms would be to follow the R.I.C.E. principle which is Rest, Ice, Compression (with an ace bandage), and Elevation of the extremity. The individual may also need crutches to get around on until they can walk normally.

Physician Care

It is most important for the individual to seek a qualified medical opinion for direction of treatment. The physician will most likely order a series of X-rays in addition to performing a comprehensive examination following a detailed injury history. Vanderbilt Sports Medicine has X-ray facilities on site, and physicians who can read the X-ray immediately for the result. Vanderbilt Sports Medicine physicians will discuss all of the pros and cons any surgical intervention may present so that the individual can make the best educated decision regarding course of recovery.

Therapy

Physical therapy may be indicated depending on the problem. Even if surgical intervention is necessary, the physician should recommend physical therapy to "get the knee in shape" for the rehabilitation protocol that will follow surgery. Vanderbilt Sports Medicine has physical therapists and certified athletic trainers on site to follow the physician directed rehabilitation protocol. Vanderbilt Sports Medicine rehabilitation specialists provide individuals with an exercise program. Click the link below for an example of an exercise program.