Because the knee is so ubiquitous in movement, knee injuries are a common problem. Sports, manual labor, and slip and fall accidents are just some of the circumstances under which a knee injury can take place. With the help of an orthopedic doctor, though, many people can recover from knee trauma and return to an active lifestyle.

Joint Dislocation

As the name of this injury denotes, dislocation occurs when one of the bones that comprises the kneefalls out of its proper position . The tibia, or shinbone, sits below the knee and can dislocate. The femur, or thighbone, can likewise move out of alignment. In many cases, sudden force against the knee is the reason behind a dislocation. The patella, or kneecap, might also shift out of position as the result of excessive force on the knee joint.

ACL Tear

Holding together the bones of the knee are several ligaments. The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is primarily responsible for keeping the lower leg in alignment. This ligament can normally endure great strain, but it is still susceptible to injury when sudden or violent motion occurs. Athletes who play soccer, basketball, and other high-intensity sports put significant stress on their knees and are particularly vulnerable to ACL tears. A quick change in direction or an awkward jump landing could be enough to snap this ligament.

Patella Fracture

Any force too strong for the knee to absorb may result in a bone break. Because of its position at the front of the knee, the patella is especially vulnerable to damage. A wayward kick to the knee during a game of soccer or direct contact with a concrete sidewalk during a fall can both produce enough force to fracture this bone. However, an orthopedic doctor can immobilize the bone fragments and even perform surgery if necessary to repair the fracture and help it heal quickly.

Able Orthopedic & Sports Medicine can effectively correct even the most severe knee injuries. Call (718) 690-9520 to learn more about our treatment techniques for this type of trauma. You can also visit our website for additional information on our total healthcare options for Queens area residents.