A knee sprain is an injury in which the ligaments connected to the knee are stretched or torn. Ligaments are bands or sheets of fibrous tissue that connect two or more bones or cartilages. They also serve as a support for fasciae or muscles.
A knee fracture is a term used to describe a medical condition in which there is a bone break in the knee joint. The knee is made up of the femur and the tibia, which connect to form the knee joint. The patella is a small thin bone that covers the knee joint and allows for better leverage when the knee straightens.
The following are symptoms of a knee sprain:
The following are symptoms of a knee fracture:
A knee fracture can be caused by, but is not limited to, the following:
Depending on the severity of your injury, a knee fracture or sprain may affect various areas of your daily life. The typical knee injury may cause minor inconveniences at home and work; however, most patients receive a knee cast or splint with crutches.
The RICE method is usually helpful in treating a knee fracture.
In order to prevent the injury from worsening, a knee cast or splint may be used until the fracture has healed as much as necessary. In addition, a walker, cane, or crutches will be used to assist in walking.
Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or acetaminophen, can also help with the pain and swelling. If you are experiencing severe pain, a stronger pain medication may be used.
Once the pain starts to subside, you will work on strengthening knee muscles by using a series of walking exercises; physical therapy may also be necessary. Depending on the severity of the injury, surgery may be required.