KNEE
WHAT IS THE KNEE?
The knee joint is one of the largest joints in the body. It is comprised of two bones, the femur and tibia that are connected by four strong ligaments. These ligaments serve to stabilize and control the motion of the knee joint. A gelatinous cartilage called meniscus that lies between them cushions the bones. All of these structures are at risk for damage. The knee is the most commonly injured joint in all age groups. It is especially susceptible to damage during athletic activities and exercise.
WHAT ARE SOME COMMON KNEE DISORDERS?
The Unhappy Triad: A sprain injury that involves three structures of the knee, the medial collateral ligament, anterior cruciate ligament, and the medial meniscus. It often occurs when the knee is impacted with lateral force while the foot is fixed on the ground. Depending on the severity of this injury, it’s treatment ranges from conservative physical therapy to outpatient surgery.
Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is often the cause of knee pain in the elderly. Osteoarthritis occurs when the joint cartilage that covers the bone ends gradually wears away due to time or overuse. Depending on the severity, treatment ranges from conservative physical therapy to joint replacement surgery.
Chondromalacia: Chondromalacia describes a disorder that involves a softening of the cartilage behind the patellar bone, or the kneecap. It is most often a form of knee pain in young adults. Symptoms of chondromalacia include a dull aching in the knee behind the kneecap. It is often worse after sitting for long periods of time or when walking down stairs. Depending on the severity of this disorder, its treatment includes occupational therapy and nutrition services.
Prepatellar Bursitis: Prepatellar bursitis occurs when the bursa sac around the kneecap becomes inflamed and swollen. This results in pain around the front of the knee during activity. Treatment typically involves outpatient surgery.
Jumper’s Knee: The patellar tendon, an extension of the quadriceps tendon, joins the kneecap to the shin bone. This tendon allows the quadriceps muscle to straighten the leg. With repeated strain, micro-tears occur in the tendon that results in inflammation and pain. Depending on the severity treatment ranges from physical therapy to outpatient surgery.
Patellofemoral Syndrome: Patellofemoral syndrome is a medical condition that occurs when the patella, otherwise known as the kneecap, does not glide correctly on the thighbone, or the femur. This results in pain around the knee joint during activity. Treatment typically involves outpatient surgery.