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How to Treat a Knee Injury from Falling

Knee injuries from falling can range from minor strains and bruises to more severe damage like dislocations, ligament injuries, and fractures. The severity of any knee injury depends on a range of different determinants; the force of the fall, the angle of impact, and other factors – such as age and overall health.

Common Knee Injuries from Falling

Some common knee injuries that can occur after a fall include:

Contusions (Bruises)

A contusion in the knee arises from the impact of a fall; it is a deep bruise that causes swelling, pain, and discoloration.

Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains around the knee occur when ligaments (sprain) or muscles and tendons (strain) are stretched or torn after a fall. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, limited range of motion, and instability.

Ligament Injuries

A torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury are examples of more severe types of injuries called ligament injuries, which result in pain, swelling, and instability in the knee.

Meniscus Tear

A meniscus is a wedge-shaped cartilage in the knee that provides cushioning to the knee. A tear at this region causes pain, swelling, and sometimes a locking feeling (a buckling, popping, or catching sensation) in the knee when you try to move the injured leg.

Broken bones or fractures in the knee arise when the fall happens with great force. Fractures result in unbearable pain and often need immediate attention and care or surgical intervention.

Dislocation

In rare cases, a fall causes dislocation of the bones of the knee joint. This is a severe injury that requires quick medical attention.

Home Remedies for a Knee Injury

If you or someone you’re with experiences a knee injury after a fall, it’s essential to rest and avoid unnecessary strain. Some measures to follow at home include:

Ice Compression

To help reduce pain and swelling, apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth to the injury for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours. 

Elevating the Injured Knee

Keep the injured knee above the heart level when possible; this helps reduce swelling.

OTC Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help fight pain and inflammation.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If the pain is severe, the knee appears deformed, or you suspect a fracture, dislocation, or ligament injury, seek immediate medical attention . Severe injuries may need X-rays, MRI scans, or surgery. It is best to seek the help of a medical professional or a specialist doctor to avoid further complications and discomfort and speed up the recovery process.

Treating a knee injury from a fall often involves a combination of self-care measures such as home remedies and seeking medical attention. Many qualified medical professionals recommend the use of knee braces.

Here’s a simple guide to treating a knee injury from falling. However, note that medical attention or the use of a knee brace may be necessary even after applying the following measures.

Take Time to Rest

In cases of less severe injuries and no apparent fracture or dislocation, start by resting the injured knee; do not put pressure or weight on the affected knee.

Immobilization

Keep the affected knee in a stable, comfortable position, avoiding all movement; in such cases, a knee brace will be helpful to immobilize the knee.

Evaluating the Severity of the Injury

Depending on the injury’s seriousness, pain, swelling, deformity, fracture, or discoloration, immediate medical help must be sought. Never attempt to self-treat severe injuries, as this can lead to permanent damage or handicap.

Using a Knee Brace for a Knee Injury

There are various types of knee braces, and the choice of brace depends on the nature of the injury. Each type of knee brace serves a specific purpose.

Elastic or Compression Knee Sleeves 

Suitable for mild strains and contusions – compression or elastic knee sleeves provide compression to reduce swelling and may offer mild support. 

Unloader Knee Braces

Providing stability, while still allowing for flexibility, unloader knee braces are best for moderate-severe injuries (such as ACL or MCL tears), as well as for those struggling with osteoarthritis. 

Hinged Knee Braces

Hinged knee braces are advisable during recovery from ligament injuries or surgery, as they provide stability and allow controlled movement due to the hinges.

Patellar Stabilizing Braces

Focused on stabilizing the patella (kneecap), patellar stabilizing braces are used for conditions like patellar tendonitis or patellar tracking issues.

Treating Your Injury the Right Way

A knee injury from falling may or may not be severe, and recovery depends on several factors. While some wounds may heal with rest, ice, and OTC medication, others may need physical therapy, including the use of high-quality knee braces or surgical intervention. It is essential and always recommended to seek medical intervention (via your physiologist, doctor, or orthopedic specialist) for treatment and rehabilitation if the pain and symptoms persist to ensure the best possible recovery outcome.

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5 Common Knee Injuries From Falling

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Several kinds of knee injuries may arise from falling :

• ligament traumas
• meniscus injuries
• dislocation

Knee injuries are common from falling. They can range from mild sprains to severe fractures or dislocations. To treat knee pain after a fall, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential. Common treatment options include rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy. Often, pain management with over-the-counter or prescription medications can also be useful. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the damage. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for proper healing and to prevent complications.

Types of Knee Injuries Occur from Fall

Knee injury from falling can really vary, but commonly, they include:

• Ligament Injuries. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are the most commonly affected ligaments in the knee. 
• Meniscus Injuries. The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) in the knee joint. Meniscus after a fall can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty bending the knee .
• Fractures. Fractures or breaks in the knee joint bones include the femur, tibia, and patella (kneecap). 
• Dislocation. A fall can cause the bones of the knee joint to become dislocated or move out of their normal position. 
• Bursitis. It is inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint. A fall can cause trauma to the knee, leading to bursitis, which can cause pain and knee swelling after the fall .

Ligament Injuries

Ligament injuries can be a painful and common occurrence from falls on your knee . When a person falls, the sudden force and impact can put an immense amount of stress on the knee joint. Ligaments are responsible for stabilizing the knee, for becoming stretched or torn. The severity of the injury can vary from a minor sprain to a complete tear of the ligament. Some people may experience a popping or snapping sound in their knee at the time of injury. Symptoms of a ligament injury can include:

• difficulty moving the knee

Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the fall on the knees. It may include rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy.

Meniscus Injuries

A meniscus injury is a common knee injury that can occur from a fall. The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in the knee joint that acts as a shock absorber. A fall can cause the meniscus to become torn or damaged. It leads to pain, limited mobility, and knee swelling after a fall . The symptoms of a meniscus injury can include:

• clicking or popping sounds
• difficulty bending or straightening the knee
• a feeling of instability in the knee joint

Treatment options for meniscus injuries can range from rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy to surgical intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent further damage and promote healing.

Fractures are common injuries that can occur from a fall on the knees . A fracture is a break or crack in the bone. The severity of the injury can range from a hairline crack to a complete break in the bone. A fall can cause a fracture in any bone in the body, but fractures in the hip, wrist, and spine are particularly common. Symptoms of a fracture can include:

• difficulty moving the affected limb

Treatment options for this knee injury from falling can vary. They depend on the severity and location of the fracture. They may include immobilization, pain management, and surgical intervention to repair the bone. 

Dislocation

Dislocations are another type of injury that can occur from falls on the knees . A dislocation is when a joint becomes completely or partially dislodged from its normal position. A fall can cause a dislocation in any joint, but common locations include the shoulder, elbow, and knee. Symptoms of dislocation can include:

• limited mobility in the affected joint

Treatment options for this knee injury from falling may include manual reduction, where a healthcare provider repositions the joint back into its normal position, followed by immobilization with a cast or splint. Physical therapy may also be recommended. It will help restore mobility and strength in the affected joint . Early treatment can help to prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Bursitis is a type of injury that can occur from a fall on the knees . Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs. They act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles around joints. A fall can cause these bursae to become inflamed, leading to bursitis. Symptoms of bursitis can include:

• tenderness in the affected area

Common locations for bursitis include the knee, elbow, and shoulder. Treatment options for bursitis may include rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy, as well as pain management with over-the-counter or prescription medications. In some cases, aspiration or corticosteroid injections may be necessary to relieve symptoms.

How to Treat Knee Pain after a Fall ? 

When it comes to treating knee pain after a fall, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A medical professional can assess the extent of the injury. He will recommend appropriate treatment options.

Some common treatment options for knee pain after a fall include:

• Rest and ice . Resting the knee and applying ice can help reduce swelling and pain. It is recommended to apply ice for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
• Pain medication. Over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain.
• Physical therapy. A medical professional may recommend physical therapy. It will help improve the range of motion and strength.
• Knee brace or support . In some cases, a knee brace or support may be recommended. It provides added stability and support during the healing process.
• Compression and elevation. Compression, such as using an elastic bandage, can help reduce knee swelling after a fall . Elevating the affected knee above the heart can also help reduce swelling.
• Surgery. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair any damage to the knee.
• Chiropractic care . A chiropractor may perform a physical examination. He will assess your condition and may use various techniques. They will relieve your pain and improve your knee function. 

It is essential to follow the recommended treatment plan. Don’t forget to attend any necessary follow-up appointments with a medical professional. If knee pain persists or worsens, it is important to seek medical attention again.

Furthermore, after recovering from knee pain after a fall , it is essential to prevent future injuries. Just take some precautions! For example, wearing comfortable footwear, avoiding uneven surfaces, and stretching regularly. In addition, incorporate strength training and low-impact exercises into a fitness routine. This can help improve knee health and reduce the risk of future knee injuries.

What Type of Doctor Should I Choose to Treat Knee Pain? 

When it comes to treating knee pain, there are several healthcare professionals. They can offer different perspectives and treatments depending on the severity and cause of the pain. Some of the healthcare professionals who can treat knee pain include:

• Primary care physicians offer initial evaluation and treatment to moderate knee pain after a fall . They can order imaging tests or refer to other specialists if the pain is severe or persistent.
• Orthopedic surgeons specialize in surgical treatments for knee injuries. For example, torn ligaments, meniscus tears, and osteoarthritis. They may also provide non-surgical treatments, such as injections, braces, or physical therapy.
• Rheumatologists are specialists in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the joints, muscles, and bones. They include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and osteoarthritis. Doctors provide treatments to help reduce inflammation and pain in the knee joint.
• Physical therapists can help improve knee strength and flexibility. It is all thanks to exercise and rehabilitation after falling on the knees . They may also use techniques to reduce pain and improve the range of motion. For example, manual therapy and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation.

In addition to these healthcare professionals, chiropractors can also help you out. They use manual techniques to manipulate the spine and other joints. They can offer adjustments to the knee joint to help reduce pain and improve the range of motion. 

Conclussion

The type of doctor to choose for knee injury from falling depends on the underlying cause. It is recommended to consult with a primary care physician first. He can provide a referral to a specialist if necessary. A multidisciplinary approach incorporates different healthcare professionals as needed. It can often provide the most effective treatment for any injury that occurs after a fall on your knee.

How do I know if my knee injury is serious?

If you experience severe pain, swelling, or instability after the fall on your knee, it may be a sign of a serious. It is best to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What can happen when you fall hard on your knee?

Falling hard on the knee can cause a range of injuries. They include ligament sprains or tears, meniscus tears, or even fractures. Depending on the severity of the injury, it may require rest, physical therapy, or even surgery.

What are the most common knee injuries from a fall?

The most common knee injuries from falling are ligament sprains or tears. Particularly it is the anterior cruciate ligament and the medial collateral ligament. Meniscus tears and patellar dislocations can also occur.

10 thoughts on “ 5 Common Knee Injuries From Falling ”

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I feel pain in the knee

I am a professional runner and my knees are under constant strain. I recently fell and seriously injured my knee. After basic treatment, I was also advised to see a chiropractor. And it really helped me to get rid of the pain to the end.

What is the best treatment for a sore knee (from falling)?

On x-ray it looks like Mild Arthritis.

I fell 12 days ago on my left knee…I put ice on it on and off for several days the swelling went down but it’s stil tender..I have blood under my skin from my knee all the way down my leg into my left ankle and foot ..is this normal?

Please could you assist with this question: I fell hard on my knees at work. Prior to this accident my knees were fine. No pain no strange knobs/spurs.

Can a spur develop on knee because of a hard fall/trauma to knee. This spur developed almost immediately 1-3 months after incident on my left knee and was still painfull after 6 months.

Please. This is vital as my work is claiming compensation for this.

But the Orthopedic i saw after 6months said it might take up to 1 year to heal.

The spur was there and sore and he did nothing about diagnosing it as Spur

The same Dr now after 1 year says the spur might not be because of fall and i must go for another opinion

I would be so grateful if you could confirm what i have read THAT A SPUR COULD DEVELOP AFTER TRAUMA/FALL

Yours sincerely

Linda Knoetze

083 227 2692 South Africa

Work injury..fell on my knee ..I have osteoarthritis and spurs. Is this worth fighting g for co.pensation? Because i noticed they were trying to settle my case without including my knee and I walk with cain.

What if you slp and fall on your knee and now your whole leg hurts?

This information was very? Very helpful, especially the last article. I didn’t know I could or should have went to my family doctor. Some specialist just want to give you knee injections, & dau it’s arthritis. I want to know what is the real damaged to my knees.

I fell down steps and chicken winged my knee when landing, over a month ago. -entire leg is swollen -appears like knee cap is sitting higher and to the outside of leg with large solid raised knot-like formation (tennis ball sized) on outside of leg -is excrutiatingly painful to stand and bear any weight after sitting for, any period of time, until it pops loudly -falling often

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