Knee is a complex and largest joint of the human body. It joins the thigh with the leg and plays an important part in movement of the body. A knee fracture is caused when any of the bones in the joint crack or break due to the application of severe force or an injury. Fractures in the knee are common among children and people who regularly take part in sports activities or have low bone strength.
Causes
- Intense injuries
- Accident
- Repetitive activities
- Arthritis
- Dislocation
- Severe fall
Symptoms
- Severe pain
- Swelling around the joint
- Cracking or popping sound
- Deformity
- Inability to move the joint
- Pale and cold foot
- Numbness around the foot and the joint
- Inability to put weight on the joint
Diagnosis
The orthopedic doctor may diagnose a knee fracture with the help of physical examination. He may ask the patient to move the leg in a particular manner and examine the extent of swelling as well as deformity. The orthopedic surgeon may ask questions about the medical history and the nature of injury that lead to the fracture. He may prescribe certain imaging tests like X-ray, CT- scans, MRI etc. to closely view the damage caused to the bone. The orthopedic doctor devises a treatment plan after determining the extent of the condition.
Treatment
- Immobilization: The orthopedic doctor may suggest limiting the movement of the affected joint. This will assist in healing and prevent the joint from bearing any weight.
- Brace: He may ask the patient to wear braces or a cast in order to hold the broken bone in place and allow it to heal.
- Medication: Anti-inflammatory medicines may be prescribed to reduce the swelling in the affected area. They can help in minimizing pain and numbness caused due to the injury.
- R.I.C.E.: The patient may be asked to follow the R.I.C.E. treatment procedure i.e. rest, ice, compression and elevation to minimize pain and swelling.
- Physical Therapy: Certain strengthening and stretching exercises can help to restore movement in the affected knee.
- Surgery: In severe cases, when non-surgical methods do not offer relief, the doctor may suggest a surgical procedure in order to join the bone. Surgery is followed by post-surgical care and rehabilitation during which the doctor’s instructions must be followed.
A knee fracture may take 6 to 8 weeks to heal and regain complete mobility of the joint. In case of a knee fracture you must consult an orthopedic surgeon for immediate and proper medical attention.
