The knee is the largest joint in our bodies and is also one of the most complex ones. The knee comprises of the lower leg bone i.e., the tibia, the knee cap i.e., the patella and the thigh bone i.e., the femur. In addition, multiple muscles, tendons, cartilage, and ligaments connect at the knee. The knee supports majority of our body weight thereby increasing its vulnerability to different types of injury and damage. There are multiple causes of a knee injury and treatment options for the same. Apart from conventional treatment, patients can also opt for knee replacement surgeries in complicated cases. Options for knee replacement surgery in India bring new opportunities for patients suffering from knee injuries.
Types and Causes of Knee Injuries
The common types of knee injuries include sprains, meniscus tears, strains, dislocations, bursitis, overuse injuries, and fractures. Let us look at the different types of knee injuries and their causes.
Fractures
Fractures can occur in any of the bones in or surrounding the knee. Generally, the patella or the knee cap is the most commonly fractured bone. The common cause of knee fractures is high impact trauma such as motor vehicle accidents or accidental falls. People with osteoporosis are more likely to incur knee fractures just by tripping.
ACL Injuries
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are also common forms of knee injuries noted largely in the case of athletes. The ACL helps in providing critical stability to the joint. ACL injuries are categorized into different grades on a scale from one to three. For example, a grade 1 injury implies mild injury while a grade 3 is applicable for a complete ACL tear. The common causes of ACL injuries are improper landing after a jump and abrupt change in the direction of motion.
Dislocation
Dislocation of the knee is also a notable type of knee injury in which the bones of the knee are out of alignment. The general causes of knee dislocation injuries are structural abnormalities or traumas such as car accidents, contact sports, and falls.
Meniscus Tear
Meniscus refers to the rubbery wedge of cartilage between the shinbone and the thighbone. A meniscus tear is also known as a torn cartilage in the knee. The common causes for a meniscus tear in knees are sporting activities and aging.
Therefore, it is clearly visible that the majority of knee injuries happen due to trauma, overuse, or abrupt stress on the knee.
Treatment of Knee Injury
The treatment of knee injury depends on the cause of the injury and other aspects related to the injury. The treatment for knee injuries due to strain or overuse generally involves rest and application of ice to the knee. In addition, treatment for knee injuries can also include the management of pain and inflammation with recommended medications.
Types of Surgery for Knee Injury
However, surgery may become necessary in the case of tears and trauma-based injuries. Some of the common types of surgery for knee injuries include the following.
• Arthroscopy for trimming a meniscus tear
• Repair of the meniscus
• Lateral release surgery for loosening the ligaments pulling the kneecap outside
• Microfracture surgery for repairing the areas of cartilage damage in the knee
Choose the Best Knee Replacement Surgery Options
The most promising form of surgery for knee injuries is knee replacement surgery. A knee replacement surgery involves the removal of the top of the shinbone and the bone and cartilage on the end of the thigh bone. The expertise of surgeons and availability of world-class sophisticated instruments and tools in India assure good long-term results for knee injury patients. Interestingly, the success rate of knee replacement in India is exceptionally high, with almost 9 out of 10 patients experiencing immediate relief. In addition, the highly economical treatment plans, including travel and accommodation, present a cost-effective solution for warding off knee injuries. So, choose the right option for an active and pain-free life right now!