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Knee Injuries in Athletes
Knee injuries in athletes occur frequently in a variety of sports and are often associated with certain activities. High-impact sports such as football, basketball, tennis, volleyball, skiing and gymnastics are common areas where knee injuries occur. In these sports, factors such as sudden turns, jumps, falls and contact can increase the risk of injury in the knee area. At the same time, endurance sports such as running and marathons can also increase knee stress, increasing the risk of injury.
In particular, structures that provide stability to the knee, such as knee ligaments, menisci and cartilages, are areas where athletes frequently experience injuries. At MSM Clinic, we provide services in the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of knee injuries seen in athletes with our expert orthopedics and traumatology team. By adopting a personalized approach for each patient, we strive to ensure that the athlete regains his health and returns to sports as soon as possible.
What are the Types of Knee Injuries in Athletes?
Knee injuries in athletes can be of various types and usually occur due to certain reasons. At MSM Clinic, with our expertise in orthopedics and traumatology, we can define the types of knee injuries commonly seen in athletes as follows:
- Knee Ligament Injuries in Athletes: Knee ligament injuries, which are frequently seen especially in sports such as football, basketball and skiing, usually occur as a result of sudden turns or collisions. The most common knee ligament injuries are; anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries.
- Meniscus Injuries in Athletes: Meniscus in the knee are cartilage structures that provide the cushioning and stabilization function of the knee. Meniscus injuries, which are common in athletes, may occur with sudden turns, jumps or bending of the knee.
- Cartilage Injuries in Athletes: Cartilage tissue in the knee protects the joint surfaces and provides smooth movement. Cartilage injuries may occur in athletes as a result of excessive repetitive movements or traumatic effects.
- Patella (Kneecap) Injuries in Athletes: Patella injuries may occur by affecting the soft tissues or bones around the kneecap. These types of injuries usually occur as a result of overuse or trauma to the knee.
- Knee Joint Capsule Injuries in Athletes: The knee joint capsule is the structure containing the connective tissue around the knee. In knee injuries, the joint capsule may also be affected and the structures that provide stability may be damaged.
At MSM Clinic, we have an expert team to accurately diagnose knee injuries in athletes and create an effective treatment plan. By adopting a personalized approach for each patient, we aim to ensure that the athlete regains his health and peak performance as quickly as possible.
What are the Causes of Knee Injuries in Athletes?
The causes of knee injuries in athletes depend on a variety of factors, and these injuries are often associated with specific sporting activities. At MSM Clinic, with our expertise in orthopedics and traumatology, we would like to explain the main causes of knee injuries that are frequently seen in athletes.
- Sudden and Uncontrolled Movements: The most common knee injuries in athletes are sudden posture changes, rapid turns and sudden starting or stopping movements. Such situations can put extra stress on the knee joint, causing ligament, cartilage or meniscus injuries.
- Muscle Imbalance and Weakness: Imbalance or weakness between athletes’ muscle groups can reduce stability in the knee area. This condition can weaken the joint’s ability to protect it, increasing the risk of injury.
- Equipment Problems: Inadequate athlete equipment, especially incorrect selection or use of shoes, can increase knee stress and predispose to injuries.
- Poor Technique and Biomechanics: Poor techniques or incorrect biomechanical movements used during sports can put excessive stress on the knees and increase the risk of injury.
- Overuse: Repeating the same movements in certain sports can subject the knees to overuse and lead to injuries over time.
At MSM Clinic, we offer an expert team and a personalized approach to identify the root causes of knee injuries in athletes and ensure the athlete is treated in the most effective way.
How to Diagnose Knee Injuries in Athletes?
Correct diagnosis of knee injuries in athletes should be made meticulously by an experienced orthopedics and traumatology team. At MSM Clinic, with our knowledge and experience in our field of expertise, we follow various steps to make the correct diagnosis of an athlete’s knee injury.
Examination and History: A detailed hospital history is taken and a physical examination is performed to understand the patient’s symptoms. The patient’s symptoms, such as pain, swelling, limitation of movement, and more, are carefully examined.
Imaging Tests: During the diagnosis process, necessary imaging tests are used. The type and severity of the injury is determined using methods such as X-ray, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT (Computed Tomography) scans and ultrasound.
Special Tests: Special tests may be performed to evaluate the condition of the ligaments and menisci in the knee. For example, tests such as the Lachman test or McMurray test can help determine the nature of the injury.
Laboratory Tests: In some cases, blood tests or other laboratory tests can help determine the cause of the injury. These tests may be used to rule out certain conditions, especially infections or rheumatic conditions.
Doctor’s Opinion: After evaluating all the findings, our specialist doctors make a diagnosis appropriate to the athlete’s condition and create a treatment plan.
How are Knee Injuries Treated in Athletes?
Treatment of knee injuries in athletes begins after a correct diagnosis, by creating a special treatment plan by our expert orthopedics and traumatology team according to the athlete’s injury type, severity and personal needs.
- Conservative Treatment: In mild and moderate injuries, conservative treatment methods are generally preferred. These methods may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Additionally, exercise programs and rehabilitation therapy may also be used. In addition to these, intra-knee or point injections can be made. These injections can be performed through PRP, collagen, hyaluronic acid and stem cell applications.
- Surgical Intervention: In cases of serious injuries or when conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical intervention may be required. At MSM Clinic, our experienced surgeons ensure the best treatment of the injury using modern surgical techniques.
- Rehabilitation: As part of the treatment, specially designed rehabilitation programs are offered to the athlete to strengthen the knee area, increase its flexibility and regain range of motion. These programs are important to accelerate the athlete’s recovery process and ensure his return to sports.
Healing Process of Knee Injuries in Athletes
The healing process of knee injuries seen in athletes generally varies depending on the type of injury, its severity, and the treatment methods applied. Generally, mild injuries may take a shorter time to heal, while serious injuries may take longer to fully heal. At MSM Clinic, we offer various supports to accelerate the healing process of knee injuries in athletes and ensure that the athlete regains his health as soon as possible. These supports include regular follow-up and evaluation by our specialist doctors, personalized rehabilitation programs, pain management, physical therapy and the use of modern surgical techniques when surgical intervention is required. We also provide motivational and emotional support to support the athlete’s psychological recovery process. Our goal is to ensure that the athlete recovers in the best possible way from his or her knee injury and returns to sports in a healthy manner as soon as possible.
