The knee is one of the most complex and hardworking joints in the body. Because it supports weight and allows for a wide range of motion, the knee is highly susceptible to injury. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or simply someone who enjoys an active lifestyle, knee injuries can be painful, debilitating, and challenging to manage.
Benjamin W. Szerlip, DO provides expert care for knee injuries in Austin, Texas. As a fellowship-trained shoulder and sports medicine surgeon, Dr. Szerlip is dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and supporting your recovery with effective, personalized treatment options. Reach out today to learn more about how we can help you get back to your routine!
The knee joint is a hinge joint where the thigh bone (femur) meets the shin bone (tibia). This essential joint also includes the kneecap (patella) and fibula, as well as four main ligaments that stabilize and guide its movements:
Together with muscles and tendons, these structures allow for walking, running, jumping, and turning. Unfortunately, these same actions can lead to injuries, with the knee’s high-impact and weight-bearing nature making it vulnerable to a range of conditions.
Understanding the different types of knee injuries can help in both prevention and early detection. Here are some of the most common knee injuries:
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are often the result of sudden stops, twists, or jumps. They are among the most common knee injuries, particularly in sports that involve pivoting. An ACL injury often produces an audible pop, immediate pain, and swelling. While minor ACL injuries may respond to physical therapy, severe tears typically require surgical intervention.
The Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) is injured less frequently than the ACL, but PCL injuries can still occur, often from direct impact to the knee. A PCL injury often causes pain, swelling, and instability when the knee is bent, but it may not be as severe as an ACL tear. Treatments can range from physical therapy to reconstructive surgery, depending on the injury’s severity.
Both the MCL and LCL can sustain injuries when the knee is pushed to either side. Collateral ligament injuries are common in contact sports and may cause pain, swelling, and limited movement. Mild cases may only need bracing and rest, while severe cases could benefit from surgery or physical therapy.
The meniscus, a C-shaped cartilage that cushions the knee, can tear due to forceful twisting or sudden stops. Meniscus tears can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling, with larger tears sometimes needing surgical repair. Smaller, less severe tears can often heal with rest and targeted physical therapy.
The knee tendons include the patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon.
The patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the tibia, is susceptible to injury, especially in activities that involve repetitive jumping. Patellar tendon injuries, or tendinitis, can cause pain and swelling, particularly just below the kneecap. Treatment often involves rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and stretching exercises.
Quadriceps tendon injuries occur when the tendon connecting the quadriceps muscle group in the thigh to the top of the kneecap is overstretched or torn. These injuries are often caused by sudden forceful movements, heavy lifting, or direct impact to the knee. Quadriceps tendon injuries can range from mild strains to complete tears, resulting in symptoms like pain above the kneecap, swelling, and difficulty straightening the knee. Treatment may include rest, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgical repair to restore stability and function to the knee.
A knee dislocation occurs when the bones that make up the knee are forced out of alignment. This is usually caused by trauma and may require emergency treatment. Symptoms include visible deformity, severe pain, and swelling. In most cases, knee dislocations require surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the joint.
Dr. Benjamin Szerlip offers comprehensive treatments tailored to each patient’s specific knee injury. Some of the treatment options include:
Many knee injuries can often be treated using non-surgical options. This may include the following:
When surgery is recommended, minimally invasive options are usually favored for their quicker recovery times and reduced risks. Minimally invasive surgery includes the following:
When ligaments and ears rupture, reconstruction surgery may be necessary. Reconstruction procedures include the following:
Our personalized approach means that each treatment plan is designed with the patient’s lifestyle and goals in mind. Whether recovery involves surgery or non-invasive treatments, our team is dedicated to guiding patients back to their activities with long-term knee health as a priority.
If you’re experiencing knee pain or have suffered a knee injury, Dr. Szerlip—a fellowship-trained shoulder and sports medicine surgeon—is here to help. From common knee injuries like ACL injuries to complex ligament repairs, our practice in Austin, TX, offers a full spectrum of treatments designed to restore your mobility and ease your pain.
Don’t let knee injuries hold you back. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and start your journey to recovery!
Medically reviewed by Benjamin W. Szerlip DO
