What is Knee Ligament?
The knee has four main ligaments. Ligaments are elastomeric tissue bands that attach bones to one another and give the joint stability and strength. The following are the four main ligaments in the knee that join the femur (thighbone) to the tibia (shin bone):
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) :
The ligament in the middle of the knee that directs the tibia’s rotation and forward motion
Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) :
The ligament that restricts the tibia’s ability to move backward and is found in the back of the knee
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) :
This is the ligament that provides stability to the inner parts of the knee.
Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) :
This is the ligament that provides stability to the outer parts of the knee.
What causes cruciate ligament damage?
One of the most often injured ligaments is the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). When there is a quick twisting motion, the ACL is frequently strained and/or torn (when the feet stay planted one way, but the knees turn the other way). Football, basketball, and skiing are three sports where ACL injuries are more likely to occur.
Another typical knee ligament to sustain an injury is the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). But the PCL damage typically happens after a swift, direct impact, whether in a vehicle accident or a football tackle.
What signs and symptoms indicate cruciate ligament damage?
A cruciate ligament damage frequently does not feel painful. Instead, the damage may be accompanied by a popping sound, the leg buckling as the individual tries to stand on it, and edoema. However, each person may have different symptoms.
The signs and symptoms of a cruciate ligament injury can resemble those of other illnesses or conditions. Always seek a diagnosis from your doctor.
What causes collateral ligament damage?
More frequently than the lateral collateral ligament, the medial collateral ligament is injured. Collateral ligament stretch and tear injuries are typically brought on by a blow to the outside of the knee, such as during a hockey or football game.
What signs indicate collateral ligament damage?
Injury to the collateral ligament causes the knee to pop and buckle, similar to cruciate ligament injuries, resulting in pain and swelling.
The signs of a collateral ligament injury can resemble those of other illnesses or conditions. Always seek a diagnosis from your doctor.
How are knee ligament injuries identified?
A thorough medical history and physical examination are also essential components of the knee ligament injury diagnostic process.
X-ray. A diagnostic procedure that produces images of interior organs, bones, and tissues on film using invisible electromagnetic energy beams allows doctors to rule out bone injuries in place of or in addition to ligament injuries.
Magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI). A diagnostic technique that creates comprehensive images of organs and body structures using a mix of powerful magnets, radiofrequency technology, and a computer is frequently used to identify damage or disease in bones and the surrounding ligaments and muscles.
Arthroscopy. A combined condition diagnosis and treatment method requiring the least amount of invasiveness possible. An arthroscope, a tiny, illuminated optic tube, is inserted into the joint during this surgery through a tiny incision in the joint. In order to analyse any arthritic or degenerative changes in the joint, to find tumours and diseases of the bones, and to diagnose the origin of bone pain and inflammation, images of the inside of the joint are projected onto a screen.
Knee Ligament Damage Treatment
Your doctor will choose the best course of action for a knee ligament injury based on:
Your age
Your general well-being and medical background
The severity of your injury
How well you tolerate particular treatments, surgeries, and drugs
How long it can take for you to recover from your injury
Your preference or opinion
Conclusion
If you are facing any of the following symptoms or any knee-related injuries, it is always recommended that you consult a specialised doctor as soon as possible.
At Astra Orthopaedic Spine Center, we have specialised and experienced doctors who serve the best interests of your injury.
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