Falls are common, and unfortunately, knee injuries from falling are even more common. It’s estimated that 10-25% of all knee injuries happen from falls, yet people don’t always realize what can happen. This article will describe the six most common knee injuries people experience from falling and provide helpful advice on how to manage and treat them.
Main Headlines
1. Overview of Knee Injuries From Falling
2. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury
3. Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury
4. Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injury
5. Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Injury
6. Patellar Tendinitis or Patellar Tendon Rupture
7. Osteoarthritis
8. Treatment of Knee Injuries From Falling
9. Prevention of Knee Injuries From Falls
10. Final Words
1. Overview of Knee Injuries From Falling
Falls are common and may result in a range of injuries, especially of the knee. Knee injuries from falling can range from minor sprains or bruises to major tears or fractures. Common knee injuries from falling include anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injury, patellar tendinitis or patellar tendon rupture, and osteoarthritis.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Injury
If you suspect you’ve experienced a knee injury from a fall, it’s important to seek medical care. Diagnosing a knee injury appropriately is key to determining the best course of action and proper treatment. After a thorough evaluation, your doctor can assess the level of injury and create a comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation plan. Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment may range from physical therapy and rest to arthroscopic surgery and reconditioning.
Common Symptoms
Common symptoms of knee injuries from falls include swelling, redness, pain or tenderness, instability and/or difficulty bearing a full weight. If you feel any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical care right away to have the appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Another sign of a knee injury from a fall is a popping sound because of a tear of the ligament or cartilage.
2. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury
The ACL is the ligament responsible for connecting the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). It is also responsible for controlling the back and forth movement of the tibia. ACL injuries from falling are some of the most serious and commonly experienced. Symptoms of ACL injuries include persistent pain, swelling, feeling of instability and difficulty bearing weight.
Injury’s Impact on Movement
Because the ACL ligament is responsible for controlling the back and forth movement of the tibia, its injury may have a major impact on movement. ACL injuries can severely affect an individual’s range of motion and prevent them from participating in activities that involve jumping, rapid changes in direction, and sudden stops.
Treatment and Recovery
In cases of ACL injuries, physical therapy and rest are usually used to help a person regain motion, strength and flexibility. In some cases, reconstructive surgery is recommended to repair the ligament. After surgery, physical therapy and rest are vital to regain strength and mobility. Depending on the degree of injury, full recovery may take anywhere from 9-12 months.
People Also Ask
What causes ACL injuries from falls?
Common causes of ACL injuries from falls are sudden stops and turns, poor landing techniques when jumping, and excessive force on the knee, such as from a sports activity.
How can an ACL injury be prevented?
Preventing ACL injuries from falls can be done by proper stretching before activities, landing with proper form when jumping, and avoiding excessive force to the knee. It is important to wear a brace or other supportive equipment when engaging in activities that could risk a fall.
What are the most common symptoms of an ACL injury?
The most common symptoms of an ACL injury are persistent pain, swelling, feeling of instability and difficulty bearing weight.
What kind of treatment is available for ACL injuries?
Treatments for ACL injuries vary depending on the severity and can include activities such as physical therapy and reconditioning, bracing, and arthroscopic surgery, as well as rest.
How long does it take to recover from an ACL injury?
The amount of time taken to recover from an ACL injury depends on the severity of the injury. Generally, full recovery can take 9-12 months after the injury.
Conclusion
Falls can result in a range of knee injuries, from minor sprains to major fractures. The most common injuries from falls include an ACL tear, PCL injury, MCL injury, LCL injury, patellar tendinitis and osteoarthritis. Knowing the symptoms and taking the appropriate steps to diagnosis, treat and prevent knee injuries from falls can help an individual return back to their normal activities.