Common knee injuries and how to treat them
Knee pain is a common challenge at any age. But at Salem Health Orthopedics, it’s an injury that sports medicine surgeons say they’re well-equipped to handle.
Physician Associate Tommy Vu said the most common knee injury is a sprain.
“I believe everybody at one point or another in their life has experienced a knee sprain from a misstep, bad landing, slip, et cetera,” Vu said. “Most of these knee sprains will improve over time with typical treatment. This should include the RICE method: Rest, ice, compression and elevation.”
When to visit Salem Health Orthopedics
Vu said most sprains improve within a few days, and patients can return to regular activities within two weeks, depending on the severity of the injury.
However, if a patient has severe pain, significant swelling, numbness or tingling, or can’t bear weight, Vu recommends coming in for an evaluation.
An initial appointment will typically include multiple X-rays to screen for fractures or dislocations, he said. And patients experiencing stiffness and weakness in the leg may need physical therapy.
“Some patients will not trust their affected knee, so having the guidance from a trained physical therapist (PT) is beneficial in getting patients back to their individual activities,” Vu said.
Preventing sprains and strains
Many knee injuries like sprains and strains can be avoided, the sports medicine PA said. Vu recommends leg strengthening exercises, stretching and cross-training with weights as part of an exercise regime.
Vu also notes that appropriate footwear and maintaining a healthy weight through exercise can help keep knee injuries at bay.
“I'm a supporter in exercising appropriately, so I work closely with the PT team to develop safe and effective exercises for patients to achieve whatever activities they’re interested in,” he said. “I believe that no matter what situation you're in or whatever diagnosis ails you, there will always be an exercise that you can participate in.”
Orthopedic care
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