One of the most common peripheral joints to sustain damage are the knees. It’s estimated that approximately 10.4 million consultations with doctors across the United States occur each year due to knee complaints such as fractures, dislocations, sprains and ligament tears. Today we will be discussing the three most common knee injuries that we see in our Chiropractic clinic.
The knee joint like the rest of the body is a complex and consists of numerous joints, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, joint capsules and surrounding muscles. Majority of common knee injuries can be managed with safe, gentle and effective Chiropractic management such as mobilisation, stretching, massage and rehabilitation exercises.
The anterior cruciate ligament is often injured during sports activities in which a person lands or twists on a planted foot. Particular athletes that engage in contact sports or high velocity exercise are most likely to suffer this common knee injury. Approximately half of all anterior cruciate ligament injuries result in damage to supporting or surrounding structures such as the meniscus or ligaments. General assessment that may indicate anterior cruciate pathology includes positive orthopaedic tests (Lachman’s, Pivot shift, Posterior draw), general knee tenderness, swelling, weakness and inability to weight bear. Depending on the level of severity, ACL injuries may require surgical intervention or if only minor then conversation rehabilitation is recommended.
Individuals who present with meniscus injuries usually demonstrate an inability to fully extend or flex the leg as well as a clicking sensation during movement. There are specific Chiropractic treatment techniques which are designed to assist with improving knee joint alignment and therefore reducing meniscus pressure. Like ACL injuries, some cases of meniscus injuries do require surgical intervention.
Tendonitis is without doubt one of the most common knee injuries that individuals suffer. The knee consists of various tendons which act to attach muscle to bone. Tendonitis typically the result of overuse injuries and we commonly see these present in runners, weight lifters or those with poor lower limb biomechanics. Typical management of tendonitis is relative rest, ice/heat, ultrasound, topical anti-inflammatories and rehabilitative exercises.