Understand The Knee & How Injury Occurs
A knee injury generally occurs because of over use or because of accidents. A sudden change in the direction of rapid movement or a wrong jump is also general causes of injuries to the area surrounding the joint. Knee joint is the area where the thigh bone, femur and the shin bone, tibia meet. A knee cap is seen in the front of the thigh bone. It is not only these bones which help in the functions carried out by the knee. The tendons, ligaments, cartilages and bursa all form part of the knee joint. Tendons connect the muscle to the bones. Ligaments connect bones to the bones. Cartilages also called as meniscus are to act as a shock absorber during activities like running or jumping. Bursas purpose is also to cushion the knee and it is a kind of sac filled with liquid. Damage to any part of these elements will result in pain to the knee. Athletes are highly prone to knee injuries as their routine involves repetitive motions and sudden jerks which cause wear and tear on the various parts of the joints. A sprain is a minor injury which occurs because of sudden twists or movements to the knee.
The pain from the sprain can be often relieved with compresses and bandages or medicine. No treatment is necessary most of the times. Tendonitis is an injury to the knee caused by extreme stress to the knee joint. It is also called as jumpers knee. Meniscus tears may occur during rapid activities and large tears will need surgery.