Knee Injury in a Young Athlete
Knee Injury
The knee is a complex, large and major joint in the human body. It is composed of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. The knee has a great responsibility for us as it is required to support the full body’s weight when standing, walking, and running, therefore it is to no surprise that many athletes experience knee injuries while playing sports.
Knee injuries vary in type as well as severity. Some common knee injuries that athletes can face include:
- Patellar fracture
- Patellar dislocation
- ACL tear
- PCL tear
- Meniscal tear
- Tendon tear
- Ligament injuries
While these injuries may not be life-threatening, they can very well be life-altering if not treated properly or cared for immediately. When first injured, it is imperative that the athlete ceases activity and follows the RICE method immediately:
- Rest
- Ice
- Compression
- Elevation
If symptoms persist or worsen, it is suggested that the injured athlete visits a medical professional immediately. Depending on the severity of the injury, the doctor will suggest one of the following treatments:
- Immobilization
- Physical Therapy in East Meadow
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Surgery
In order to treat knee injuries, physical therapists induce a variety of techniques, including, but not limited to, heat and ice therapy, stretches and exercises, ultrasound therapy, and electrical nerve or muscle stimulation. The goal of physical therapy in East Meadow for a knee injury is to strengthen the knee and the affected area and restore full mobility to the knee. Treatment duration depends on the severity of the case, but it is likely that the patient will be required to undergo a couple of sessions per week for about two months. The end goal is to restore the knee to full health, all the while avoiding the complications of surgical intervention.
At Island Sports Physical Therapy in East Meadow, our therapists have the skills and knowledge necessary to fully heal your injured knee. If you’re looking for an experienced PT that will give you a personalized treatment plan and be with you every step of the way, look no further. Call us to schedule an appointment today and relieve your pain!
