Common Knee Injuries & How We Treat Them

Your knees are extraordinary joints, offering both stability and flexibility as the largest joint in the body. But even the steadiest legs can buckle under certain conditions. Knee injuries are as common as they are painful, often stemming from sports, accidents, or underlying health issues. Here’s a breakdown of common knee injuries and the various treatment options that promise to restore your lower body’s powerhouse to full health.

The Anatomy of a Knee Injury

Before we can brace ourselves for the treatment, understanding how and why knee injuries occur is crucial. The knee joint comprises bones—the thigh bone, commonly known as the femur, the shin bone, or tibia, and the patella, or kneecap—which are supported by muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Injuries can involve any of these elements, leading to strains, sprains, or more significant damage like tears and fractures. Common culprits of knee injuries include:

Overextension in sports, such as football or basketball
Sudden twisting movements that the joint was unprepared for
Repetitive motions, common in careers or hobbies that put strain on knee structures

Injuries might manifest as immediate pain, swelling, or the inability to bear weight. This is your body’s way of signaling distress in a highly functional area, and prompt care is essential to prevent chronic issues.

Your Path to Recovery After a Knee Injury

When knee injuries sideline you, the road to recovery can feel like an uphill battle. But with the proper knowledge and care, it’s a summit worth climbing. Treatment regimens vary based on the type and severity of the injury, but a combination of rest, rehabilitation, and perhaps surgery can mend what’s broken.

First Steps Post-Injury:

The RICE Protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation
Supportive bracing or devices to aid in immobilization
Over-the-counter pain medications for relief

Beyond the Basics:

Physical therapy aimed at strengthening and flexibility
Manual therapy to address secondary issues and enhance the healing process
Pain management approaches such as injections to alleviate symptoms

Surgical Solutions:

In severe cases, orthopedic surgery might be necessary to repair ligament or tendon damage
Post-surgical rehabilitation is critical for restoration of joint functionality

Holistic Care at Impact Medical Group of St. Petersburg

Understanding that your recovery is about more than just the knee, Impact Medical Group offers holistic care that looks at the entire picture. Our services go beyond treating the knee to address the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of the patient, partnering with them through the various stages of rehabilitation. Our compassionate, holistic approach involves:

A team is comprised of specialists in multiple areas, ensuring a comprehensive treatment plan
Prioritizing open communication, so patients understand their condition and the steps toward recovery
Providing personalized care that suits each patient’s unique needs and lifestyle

Don’t journey through life with a knee injury dragging you down. Seek compassionate, holistic care at Impact Medical Group of St. Petersburg. Schedule your free medical evaluation by calling us at (727) 722-8103 and take the first step toward recovery.