Sports Injuries of the Knee

Knee injuries pose a significant challenge for athletes and active individuals. Whether caused by high-impact sports or repetitive strain, knee issues can disrupt both performance and daily life. At our clinic, we understand the demands of your active lifestyle and provide focused care to address sports-related knee injuries, helping to alleviate pain and support recovery.

Common Sports-related Knee Injuries

Injuries can occur due to sudden impacts, overuse, or improper movement. Some of the most common sports-related knee injuries include:

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tears: Common in high-impact sports, ACL tears often require surgical intervention and months of rehabilitation.
• Meniscus Tears: A tear in the cartilage that cushions the knee joint, often caused by sudden twisting or overuse.
• Patella Fractures: Fractures of the kneecap can occur due to direct trauma, falls, or sudden impacts, often resulting in severe pain and limited mobility.
• Knee Dislocation: This injury occurs when the bones of the knee joint are displaced, which can damage ligaments and other structures. It requires immediate medical attention.
• Kneecap Dislocation: This occurs when the kneecap slips out of its vertical groove, leading to pain and instability in the knee.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee): Pain behind or around the kneecap, typically caused by overuse, weak muscles, or improper alignment.
• Iliotibial Band Syndrome: An overuse injury that causes pain on the outside of the knee, where the iliotibial (IT) band rubs against the bone. It often affects runners and cyclists.
• Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper's Knee): An overuse injury causing pain and inflammation in the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone.
• Knee Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint. It is particularly common in sports that require kneeling or frequent impact.

Without proper care, these injuries can lead to long-term complications or chronic pain, which may prevent you from engaging in your usual sports activities.

How Are Sports-related Knee Injuries Diagnosed?

Diagnosing these injuries involves physical examinations and imaging tests to determine the nature of your injury. This includes:

• Physical Examination: A thorough assessment of your knee's range of motion, strength, and stability.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans are used to get a detailed view of the knee's internal structure.
• Specialised Tests: In some cases, an arthroscopy may be recommended to examine the inside of the knee and confirm the diagnosis.

Early diagnosis enables your orthopaedic doctor to develop a targeted treatment plan that addresses your specific needs, whether you are an active individual or a professional athlete.

How Are Sports-related Knee Injuries Treated?

Treatment varies based on the severity and type of injury. Our clinic offers a range of surgical options tailored to your needs:

• Knee Arthroscopy: This minimally invasive procedure uses a small camera to examine and repair damaged tissues, including cartilage and ligaments. It is commonly used for meniscus repairs, cartilage repair (chondroplasty), and ligament reconstructions.
• Ligament Reconstruction: For injuries like ACL or PCL tears, arthroscopic reconstruction is performed to restore knee stability. This includes ACL Reconstruction, PCL Reconstruction, and Multiligament Knee Reconstruction for more severe or complex injuries.
• Meniscal Surgery: Depending on the extent of damage, the meniscus may be repaired (Meniscal Repair), partially removed (Partial Meniscectomy), or replaced with a donor meniscus (Meniscal Transplant), helping to restore knee function and prevent long-term issues.
• Chondroplasty: This procedure focuses on repairing damaged cartilage to preserve knee function and facilitate the athlete's return to physical activity.

Tailored Recovery for Lasting Results

Recovery from a knee injury is not just about treating the symptoms but addressing the underlying causes to prevent future injury. At Axis Orthopaedic Centre, our recovery plans are customised to fit your specific injury, athletic demands, and lifestyle. We work with you every step of the way to ensure optimal results:

• Physical Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy sessions are prescribed to strengthen the muscles around your knee, improve flexibility, and restore balance.
• Gradual Return to Sports: A phased approach to ensure you are ready to resume physical activities without risking re-injury.
• Ongoing Support: Follow-up appointments to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to your recovery plan.

If knee pain is holding you back from your favourite sports and activities, it is time to take action. Book a consultation with Dr Seng today at 9711 8888 to explore your treatment options and get back to doing what you love.