Falling is a common cause of knee injuries, whether it’s a minor stumble, a slip on a wet surface, or a more severe fall from a height. The knees bear a significant amount of impact during these falls, which makes them especially vulnerable to various types of injuries. Understanding the common knee injuries from falling can help you recognize the symptoms, seek treatment swiftly, and prevent long-term damage. Check out these 7 common knee injuries from falling and learn more about how our team of Conyers doctors can help.
Patellar Fracture
A patellar fracture occurs when the kneecap (patella) breaks, which most commonly occurs from a direct impact on the knee during a fall. This type of knee injury from falling is particularly painful and can make it difficult or impossible to straighten the knee or walk.
- Symptoms: Intense pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the knee
Patellar Tendonitis
Patellar tendonitis, also known as “jumper’s knee,” can occur from a fall that puts excessive strain on the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone. This injury is more common in athletes but can also happen during a slip and fall.
- Symptoms: Pain just below the kneecap, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area
Meniscus Tear
The meniscus is a piece of cartilage shaped like a C that acts as a cushion between the thighbone (femur) and the shinbone (tibia). A sudden twist or direct impact from a fall can cause a meniscus tear, causing to pain and limited mobility.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, stiffness, and a feeling of the knee “locking” or “catching” when bearing weight
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury
The ACL is one of the key ligaments that stabilize the knee joint. A sudden change in direction, landing awkwardly, or a direct blow to the knee during a fall can result in an ACL injury. ACL injuries can range from a mild sprain to a complete tear.
- Symptoms: A “popping” sound at the time of injury, severe pain, swelling, and instability in the knee
Ligament Sprain
In addition to the ACL, the knee contains several other ligaments, including the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL), which can also become sprained during a fall. A ligament sprain occurs when these ligaments are stretched or torn, leading to pain and instability.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected knee
Knee Bursitis
The bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles that support the knee joint. A hard fall can cause the bursae to become inflamed, leading to a condition known as knee bursitis.
- Symptoms: Swelling, tenderness, and warmth around the knee, especially in front of the kneecap
Osteochondral Injury
An osteochondral injury involves damage to both the cartilage and the underlying bone in the knee joint, often resulting from a high-impact fall. This type of injury can lead to long-term joint problems if not properly treated.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, stiffness, and a limited range of motion in the knee
Treatment & Recovery for Knee Injuries
Recovering from a knee injury fall will require a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses not only the knee injury itself but also any underlying factors that may contribute to your overall knee and joint health. At AICA Orthopedics, our multi-specialty team of slip and fall doctors can provide a holistic approach to your recovery, from chiropractic care to consultation with an orthopedic surgeon.
Chiropractic Care
A chiropractor can provide you with a non-invasive and drug-free approach to treating knee injuries by addressing any misalignments that may have resulted from the fall. Through manual adjustments, a chiropractor can help reduce your pain, improve joint mobility, and promote the body’s natural healing processes. Chiropractic care can be particularly beneficial for addressing issues like ligament sprains and knee bursitis by focusing on restoring proper alignment and healthy functioning to the affected area.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a common aspect of recovering from a knee injury, particularly after a slip and fall injury. A physical therapist will work with you to develop a personalized exercise program that helps strengthen the muscles around your knee, improve your flexibility, and restore your range of motion. Physical therapy can also help reduce pain and swelling, prevent further injury, and help speed up your return to your regular activities.
Orthopedic Doctors
An orthopedic doctor specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal injuries, including knee injuries from falls. If you are dealing with a serious knee injury, like a patellar fracture, ACL tear, or osteochondral injury, an orthopedic doctor can evaluate the extent of the damage and recommend the most appropriate treatment options, which may include surgical interventions if necessary.
How to Treat a Knee Injury from Falling
Treating a knee injury from falling typically involves a combination of rest, rehabilitation, and a treatment plan tailored to your specific circumstances. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications so that you’re on track to experience the best possible outcome. Here’s what to know about how you can take care of yourself after a knee injury from falling:
- Rest and Protection: Avoid putting weight on the injured knee and use crutches or a brace if necessary to better protect the joint.
- Ice and Compression: Apply ice to the injured area to reduce swelling and inflammation. Use a compression bandage to provide additional joint support and minimize swelling in the area.
- Elevation: Elevate the injured knee above heart level to help reduce swelling.
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Medical Evaluation: Consult with a slip and fall doctor as soon as possible so they can determine the severity of your injury recommend the most appropriate treatment options for you.
Slip & Fall Knee Injury Doctors in Conyers
Knee injuries from falls are common in public settings, the work place, and at home. They can range from mild sprains to more severe conditions that end up needing surgical intervention. Recognizing the symptoms and getting treatment as soon as possible can make a huge difference in your recovery and long-term knee health. At AICA Orthopedics in Conyers, our multi-specialty team of Conyers doctors include chiropractors, physical therapists, and orthopedic surgeons who work together to provide a comprehensive approach to your recovery. If you’ve experienced a falling on knee injury, contact AICA Orthopedics today and get started on a personalized treatment plan to help you recover.