Knee Sprain and Strain Treatment
Sprains are a common injury sustained by active participants of sports or physical fitness. This type of injury is a result of stretching or tearing the ligaments that support the joints in your body. Your knees are one of the most vulnerable joints that are susceptible to sprains that can result from sudden twisting motions.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our highly-experienced, certified knee specialists can provide you with the relief you deserve from knee sprains. Treatment options for this condition include the following:
Our team will work with you to discuss treatment options best suited for your condition to help you get back to your daily routines and the activities you enjoy.
If you have sustained a knee sprain, we are here to provide you with the relief you deserve. Schedule your first consultation with the team at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists today. If you’re in an emergency situation, visit the Immediate Care Clinic at our Schaumburg, IL location.
Knee Sprains and Strains FAQ
What Is Knee Sprains and Strains?
When you participate in sports and physical fitness activities, you can injure the soft tissues of your body. Even simple everyday activities can damage these ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
Some of the soft-tissue injuries you are most likely to experience include:
- Sprains
- Strains
- Contusions
- Tendonitis
- Bursitis
- Stress injuries
Any of these can be the result of a single episode, such as a fall, a sudden twist, or a blow to the body.
What Causes Knee Sprains and Strains?
Sprains
The joints of your body are supported by ligaments. Ligaments are strong bands of connective tissue that connect one bone to another. A sprain is a simple stretch or tear of the ligaments.
Common causes of sprains:
- A sprained ankle from the foot turning inward, causing tension on the ligaments
- A sprained knee from a sudden twist
- A wrist sprain from falling on an outstretched hand
Mild sprains often heal with the R.I.C.E. method (rest, ice, compression, elevation) and exercise. Moderate sprains may require bracing, while severe sprains might need surgery.
Strains
Strains involve injuries to muscles or tendons, which connect muscles to bones. Strains can range from simple stretches to partial or complete tears of the muscle-tendon unit.
Treatment for strains is similar to sprains: the R.I.C.E. method followed by exercises to relieve pain and restore mobility. Severe tears may require surgical repair.
What Are The Symptoms of Knee Sprains and Strains?
- Swelling
- Weakness
- Buckling
- Bruising
- Tenderness
- Pain
- Popping
- Stiffness
- Muscle spasms
What Are The Treatment Options For Knee Sprains and Strains?
The treatment options include:
- R.I.C.E. method (Rest, ice, compression, elevation)
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
- Knee arthroscopy
Good Care: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts should pay attention to warning signs like pain and fatigue. Stretching before exercise and stopping before exhaustion can help prevent injuries. Poor muscle balance, lack of flexibility, or past injuries may contribute to stress injuries.
Consult an orthopedic surgeon for treatment and to develop a rehabilitation program for restoring function.