A sprained knee can be both painful and limiting, affecting your ability to walk, run, or perform daily activities. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about sprained knees—from causes and symptoms to recovery and prevention tips.
Benjamin W. Szerlip, DO, provides expert care for knee injuries, including sprains. If you’re struggling with knee pain in Austin, Texas, contact us to see how we can help you regain strength and mobility with personalized treatment plans!
“Dr. Szerlip was very personable, knowledgeable, and took time for all my questions. He gave great explanations of my problem and potential solutions. I have full confidence in his recommendations for treatment and therapy.” — Pam G.
A sprained knee occurs when one or more of the knee ligaments are stretched or torn due to injury. The knee joint relies on four primary ligaments to maintain stability and proper movement:
When these ligaments are damaged, it can result in mild to severe knee strain, depending on the extent of the injury.
The symptoms of a knee sprain vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common knee sprain symptoms include:
Severe sprains or a torn ligament may cause instability, where the knee feels like it might give out during movement.
A knee sprain often results from sudden movements or trauma that strain the knee ligaments. Common causes include:
Poor conditioning of leg muscles or weak knee ligaments can increase the risk of sprains, especially during intense physical activity.
Diagnosing a knee sprain begins with a physical examination. A fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeon like Dr. Benjamin Szerlip will evaluate your injured knee by checking for swelling, range of motion, and ligament stability.
Imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the sprain. An MRI is especially helpful for assessing damage to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), or other collateral ligaments
Treatment for a knee sprain depends on its severity. Here are the most common approaches:
This initial treatment is essential for reducing swelling and alleviating knee pain. Using an elastic bandage or wrap can provide gentle compression to support the knee.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage swelling and discomfort.
A knee brace may be recommended to stabilize the knee joint and prevent further injury during recovery.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in regaining strength and mobility. Therapists design exercises to strengthen leg muscles, improve flexibility, and prevent long-term complications.
For severe sprains, such as a completely torn ligament, surgery may be necessary. Procedures like ligament reconstruction can restore knee stability. Dr. Szerlip specializes in minimally invasive surgical techniques for ligament injuries, ensuring optimal recovery outcomes.
Recovery time varies based on the severity of the sprain:
Adhering to your physical therapy plan and gradually reintroducing activity are critical steps in the healing process. Regular follow-up visits with Dr. Szerlip ensure your knee is healing correctly and prevent setbacks.
While it’s impossible to prevent all knee injuries, these tips can reduce your risk of a sprained knee:
If you’ve had previous knee injuries, working with a sports medicine surgeon can help develop a prevention plan tailored to your needs.
When you’re dealing with a sprained knee, expert care is essential to ensure a full recovery. Dr. Benjamin W. Szerlip, a fellowship-trained shoulder and sports medicine surgeon, specializes in diagnosing and treating knee injuries, from mild strains to severe ligament tears.
Located in Austin, Texas, our practice combines advanced techniques and personalized care to help you return to your active lifestyle. If you’re experiencing knee pain or suspect a sprain, trust the expertise of Dr. Szerlip. Contact our office today to learn how we can help you heal and regain strength!
