Knee

MENISCUS

Damage to the meniscus can usually be traced to wear on the joint – over the years the tissue loses its elasticity and is no longer as firm. Accidents, such as those that occur during skiing or basketball, often play only a secondary role. Though trauma can cause damage on its own in some cases, chronic overuse or incorrect use of this joint in our day-to-day lives – even if we’re unaware of a problem – constitutes another cause of injury. Pain is noticeable in everyday movements.

Knee supports, in combination with appropriate athletic activities and physical therapy, are a component of treatment.

LIGAMENTS

Injuries to the cruciate and collateral ligaments are usually the result of an accident in which external forces acting on the knee exceed what the ligaments can handle. Whether you’ve been skiing or playing soccer, intense pain, rapid swelling of the knee joint, and little or no movement are all signs that point to a possible ligament injury.

Many ligament injuries require surgery. Knee supports complement subsequent rehabilitation efforts.

CARTILAGE DAMAGE

In addition to normal, age-related wear and tear on the knee, the joint can also be worn down or its cartilage damaged if an individual is significantly bowlegged or knock-kneed. Changes such as these can sneak up on a person, with pain often first appearing during perfectly normal, day-to-day activities. In its advanced stages, this condition severely limits the movement of the joint.

Anti-rheumatoid painkillers along with a knee support can help reduce or even eliminate pain.

PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN SYNDROME

This term encompasses a variety of different conditions related to the kneecap (patella). These conditions range from disorders of the upper leg muscles to a congenital malformation in which the kneecap is prone to lateral dislocation. Typically, pain occurs when walking, running or straightening up after squatting.

Helpful treatment options can include physical training for the thigh muscles aimed specifically at improving their ability to hold the kneecap in place and/or move it properly. The use of a knee support is also helpful.