Orthopedics, Knee and Sports Injuries

Knee Injuries: Causes and Treatment

Knee injuries are one of the most common injuries among athletes, and may range from simple injuries that can be treated without surgery to more complex injuries that require surgical intervention. Knee injuries vary, the most prominent of which are:

Ligament tears: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is one of the most common injuries in sports that require rapid movement and sudden changes in direction such as football and basketball. This tear causes severe pain and loss of stability in the knee, and often requires surgery to rebuild the ligament.

Meniscus tears: The meniscus is a soft material that acts as a cushion between the bones of the knee, and when this cartilage tears due to twisting the knee or sudden movements, it may cause pain, swelling and difficulty in movement. Treatments for meniscus tears range from conservative treatment to surgery, which may include cleaning the joint or repairing the cartilage.

Tendonitis: Tendonitis in the knee is usually caused by overuse of the muscles and ligaments, and is common among athletes. Simple inflammation can be treated with rest and physical therapy, but in advanced cases, the patient may need surgery.

Bone fractures: Fractures that may occur in the knee bones as a result of falls or severe collisions may require surgery to re-stabilize the bone using metal plates or screws.

Knee injury treatment in orthopedic surgery

Treatment of knee injuries depends mainly on the type and severity of the injury. In cases of simple injuries, treatment may be limited to rest, physical therapy, and ice therapy to relieve pain and swelling. In more complex cases, surgery may be required.

Anterior cruciate ligament surgery: In the case of a torn anterior cruciate ligament, treatment usually requires surgery to reconstruct the ligament using tissue taken from other parts of the body or using artificial tissue. The goal of surgery is to restore stability and normal movement to the knee.

Knee arthroscopy: In cases of cartilage or tendon tears, arthroscopic surgery may be used, which is a minimally invasive surgery, where a small camera and surgical tools are inserted through small incisions in the skin. This technique helps reduce pain and shorten the recovery period.

Knee implantation: In advanced cases of joint erosion due to arthritis or recurring injuries, an artificial knee joint may be recommended. This surgery aims to restore movement and reduce pain, enabling the patient to resume daily activities.

Sports injuries: prevention and treatment

Sports injuries are common injuries in sports that require high physical effort, such as football, basketball, and tennis. These injuries can include sprains, ligament tears, fractures, and joint dislocations. Treating these injuries requires immediate and accurate care to avoid worsening the condition.

To prevent sports injuries, athletes must adhere to some guidelines such as:

• Warm up well before exercising.
• Use appropriate sports equipment.
• Maintain muscle flexibility and strength through regular exercise.
• Avoid over-exercising.

Conclusion

Orthopedic and knee surgery is an essential part of the treatment of sports injuries, especially those affecting athletes. With the advancement of surgical techniques, such as arthroscopic surgery and joint transplantation, treatment has become more effective and less painful, which contributes to improving patients’ recovery and returning to sports activities faster. By paying attention to prevention and appropriate treatment, the risk of injuries can be reduced and the health of the knee can be maintained better.