The knee is a complex joint that can be injured in various ways, usually by a sudden twist or a direct blow. Knee injuries come in different degrees of severity and include fractures, dislocation, and ligament tears. The most common causes of knee injuries are sports-related activities such as football or soccer or accidents such as falling from heights or being hit by a large force. Potential complications may include sepsis, infection, and osteoarthritis.
What Are Some Symptoms of Knee Injuries?
Some of these injuries will be evident immediately, while others develop over time. The most common symptoms of knee injuries include pain, swelling and bruising; if any of these symptoms develop after an injury, it is crucial to visit a physician as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.
Avoiding Knee Injuries as an Athlete
It is important to take precautions before sports activities, which will help prevent knee injuries.
Athletes are at an increased risk for sustaining knee injuries due to the high number of times they land on their knees during practice and games. Proper footwear for the sport being played should be worn, and supportive equipment such as pads or cups should be used during playtime.
How to Prevent Knees from Aching with these Simple Tips
It is essential to remember that proper footwear plays a vital role in preventing knee pain. One study found that wearing stable supportive shoes significantly reduced the risk of knee pain, which is not surprising because wearing heels for long periods puts extra pressure on your knees, which can cause aches. Additionally, taller people are more at risk of experiencing knee pain due to the increased bending required when walking.
A physical therapist would recommend you do exercises for your entire lower body and core strengthening and stretching exercises to maintain flexibility and reduce strain on your knees. These exercises include squats, leg extensions, and calf raises. You should also keep up with stretching by doing yoga or participating in a pilates class. If you’re someone who does pilates at home, you can also purchase pilates equipment from sites like frame fitness.
What to do with First Sign of Knee Injury
The first step to take when experiencing a knee injury is to sit down and assess the situation. The next step would be to take off any restrictive clothing, such as your pants. If you are wearing an article of clothing over your knee, remove it carefully to prevent injury worsening. Once you have removed your clothes, lie down on your back with both legs in the air for thirty minutes– this will minimize the blood flow.
Knee injuries can happen to anyone, and they’re one of the most common sports injuries. If this has happened to you or someone you know, you need to follow first aid and icing advice, as this will help reduce the pain & swelling.
How Long Does it Take for a Knee Injury to Heal
It can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months for a knee injury to heal. The type of injury, age, weight, and activity level of the person will all determine how long it takes. One can use a knee scooter temporarily while the injured site is healing. A knee scooter is better than crutches as it’s easier to move around.
Conclusion
Knee injuries are common and can lead to discomfort or pain. It’s important to rest immediately. Do not take any NSAIDs or pain medications that a doctor hasn’t prescribed.