Knee injuries are extremely common, with statistics indicating that over 40% of all sports injuries are knee-related. But knee injuries don't just happen in sports; they’re also very common among anyone who engages in physical activity—and even those who just bend their knee the wrong way.
Some injuries can require advanced treatment like rehabilitation or surgery. Thankfully, the majority of knee injuries can be treated at home. Here's a look at some of the most common knee injuries people experience and how you can treat the less severe ones.
Knee injuries are very common, and they usually involve one of a few different types of injuries. These include:
Luckily, most knee injuries can be healed with commonly available methods. In many cases, an individual can simply follow the RICE method: rest, ice, compress, and elevate the knee. In instances where the injury is minor, taking over-the-counter medications can often help to reduce or control swelling and pain.
In some instances, a doctor may prescribe more extensive treatments. A brace may be applied to your knee in order to support it and limit mobility if the injury is severe enough. You may also be given crutches or otherwise be told to avoid putting weight on the knee whenever possible.
In more extreme cases, such as a torn ligament or broken bone, surgery may be necessary in order to repair whatever damage you have incurred. This is often followed by physical therapy. Sometimes, physical therapy can be prescribed without surgery. A well-qualified physical therapist can help you strengthen your injured knee and identify other ways to reduce your pain and improve your mobility.
If you need help managing your knee injuries, reach out today to the practice of Matthew D. Barber, M.D., in Mobile, Alabama. Dr. Barber has extensive experience in treating a wide array of knee injuries with both surgical and non-surgical treatments, so contact us to book an appointment today.
While Dr. Barber focuses exclusively on the management of knee and hip problems with a focus on joint replacement procedures, he is proud to be a source of information for patients and has several specialist partners at ALABAMA ORTHOPAEDIC CLINIC who are available to treat any orthopedic condition.
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