Knee Injuries

The knee joint is formed by the upper leg bone, one of the lower leg bones (fibula) and the kneecap. The knee’s primary purpose is to extend, flex and rotate the lower leg.

Because the knee is a complex joint made up of many parts, it is easily injured.

In most cases, knee injuries don’t require immediate medical attention. In fact, many injuries can be treated with rest, ice and over-the-counter pain medications. But, if you still have symptoms after two days of self-treatment or if your pain gets worse, you should see a doctor.

On rare occasions, knee injuries can be more serious. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately:

• Tingling or numbness in your toes
• Unstable joint
• Cold or clammy skin
• Weakened pulse in the ankle area

For a referral to a MedStar SportsHealth specialist who can help treat your knee injury, call 1-888-44SPORT.

Common knee injuries

• Meniscus tear
• Shin splints
• Tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Strains and sprains of the muscle, tendon, cartilage, bone and soft tissue
• Anterior knee pain: Patella Femoral Syndrome
• Overuse injuries
• ACL repair
• Partial & total joint replacement
• Patella instability
• Tendon rupture
• Subluxation
• Dislocation
• Fractures
• Torn and displaced supporting structures, such as cartilage and meniscus
• Impingement, injuries of the fat pad
• Pediatric growth plate disorder known as Osgood Schlatter’s Disease