Post-traumatic knee pain
Author: Raphael Fung, Registered Physiotherapist
Individuals who suffer direct knee impact, such as car accident victims or those who fall, as well as those involved in high-risk sports that can lead to trauma, such as extreme sports, may experience structural damage to the knee joint.
Post-traumatic knee pain can have various causes, depending on the nature and severity of the injury. Here are some common causes of post-traumatic knee pain:
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Soft Tissue Damage:
Impact or sprains can lead to injuries of the muscles, tendons, or ligaments around the knee. These injuries may include strains, contusions, or tears. -
Fracture:
Bones in the knee (such as the femur, tibia, or patella) may fracture from impact or a fall. -
Joint Dislocation:
The knee joint may be partially or completely dislocated due to impact or a sprain. -
Nerve Damage:
Nerves near the knee may be damaged due to trauma, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling sensations. -
Infection:
Though less common, open knee wounds can lead to infection, causing pain and redness. -
Hematoma:
Vascular damage can result in a hematoma within or around the knee tissues, causing pain and swelling.
To reduce the risk of knee pain, it is recommended that these high-risk individuals engage in regular muscle strengthening and flexibility training, maintain a healthy weight, and perform proper warm-up and stretching exercises before activity. If pain or discomfort occurs, immediate medical attention should be sought for evaluation and treatment.
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