The Knee
Summary
The knee is commonly injured in all age groups, especially during athletics and exercise. Physicians can frequently diagnose many knee complaints by first taking a thorough history from the patient, which often reveals a twisting episode, swelling, popping,
grinding, giving way or locking. It's also important to know whether the
injury is recent or recurrent and if any treatment, tests, or surgery have
been done in the past.
Although there are many complicated areas around the injured knee that
doctors are concerned about, the most commonly affected structures are the
cartilage (menisci) and ligaments. These are found on each side of the joint
and there are two other ligaments that cross inside the knee, known as
cruciates.
On physical exam, the patient is asked to point to the spot where and when it
hurts the most. I'm looking for swelling in the tissues, fluid in the joint,
muscle wasting, kneecap grinding, ligament instability, or loss of motion,
just to name a few. The knee joint is quite easy to examine and experienced
physicians will not cause excessive discomfort to the patient during these
maneuvers. X-rays do not show ligament or cartilage damage and are frequently
over-utilized with multiple views. Stress x-rays are unnecessary and painful
for the patient. Likewise, Magnetic Resonance (MR) scans can be helpful but
are not necessary unless the physician feels strongly that the outcome of
the scan will contribute to or change the proposed course of treatment.
Although many problems about the knee can be treated conservatively with
early mobilization, ice, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and NSAID's, some
conditions such as cartilage tears will require arthroscopic surgery. This
procedure is done as an out-patient, is quite safe, and has a low
complication rate, allowing most patients a quick return to work and
recreational activities.
Ligament tears may also require surgical intervention but a thorough
discussion of the pros and cons of the procedure, length of rehabilitation,
need for post-operative bracing, and close follow-up care is essential.
Bursitis and tendinitis occurring about the knee are usually treated with
NSAID's, ice, physical therapy modalities, and possible modifications of
activities.
Chondromalacia, or a roughening of the undersurface of the kneecap, is
commonly seen in females more than males and can be treated symptomatically
with ice and exercise, but may require surgical attention in patients with
excessive grinding or pain who have failed to respond to conservative
measures. The laser has made this procedure more successful and you should
ask your doctor if he uses this equipment and has had the proper training.
Finally, many patients ask about braces for knees. Legitimate braces with metal or plastic parts are frequently required after ligament injuries or surgery and are custom fitted. These braces are best for people with instability or who are post-operative from ligament surgery. Patients who have no instability may want to purchase sleeves or other slip-on devices which should not be warn too tight as to compromise circulation.