Common Knee Conditions

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) can be sprained or torn during sports that involve sudden stops or changes in direction. The severity ranges from a mild sprain to a complete tear. Treatment options range from physical therapy and bracing for minor injuries to surgical reconstruction for complete tears.

This condition occurs when the iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue that runs from the hip to the outside of the knee, becomes tight or inflamed. This can cause pain, especially with bending of the knee, and is common in cyclists, runners, and hikers. Treatment typically involves rest, stretching, and physical therapy, but in persistent cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be considered.

The cartilage of the knee can become damaged in isolated spots, known as osteochondral defects. Depending on the size and symptoms associated with the, treatment can range from rest and physical therapy, to cartilage preservation surgeries to restore the cartilage.

The meniscus can suffer from a tear due to a forceful twist or rotation during sports, a work-related injury, or degenerative changes with aging. Severity can range from minor, stable tears to severe, unstable tears. Treatments can vary from rest and physical therapy to surgical repair or meniscectomy, depending on the type and location of the tear.

This degenerative condition involves the gradual wear and tear of the knee cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Severity can range from mild to severe. Treatments typically start with lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, and medications, but may progress to joint replacement surgery in severe cases.

Patella dislocations can happen from a traumatic blow to the knee, or from a combination of risk factors with how your knee is built. When the patella dislocates, it usually tears a ligament called the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL). Once the ligament is torn, the patella is easier to dislocate in the future. This can sometimes be managed nonoperatively, but if symptoms continue may need a reconstructive surgery.

This is an overuse injury affecting your knee. It’s the result of repeated stress on your patellar tendon, which can cause tiny tears in the tendon, leading to pain and swelling. It’s common in sports that involve jumping like basketball or volleyball but can also occur due to degenerative changes. Treatments typically include rest, physical therapy, and pain relievers. In severe cases, surgery may be considered.

The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is often injured from a blow to the front of the knee while it’s bent. Severity can range from partial to complete tears. PCL injuries are often treated with rest, ice, physical therapy, and bracing, although severe or combined ligament injuries may require surgery.

This condition causes pain under your kneecap and is often due to repetitive stress on your knee joint, muscular imbalances, or issues with knee alignment. It’s common in runners, hence the name, but can also affect individuals with certain work activities. Treatments usually involve rest, ice, compression, elevation, physical therapy, and pain relievers.