Cartilage Injury of the Knee

Some cartilages will present as a very painful locked knee often with swelling, and must be assessed immediately by our practitioners as muscles wasting can begin immediately.
Symptoms of Cartilage Injury are:

• An inability to fully bend or straighten the knee
• Pain on squatting/twisting
• Pain with running, twisting
• Muscle wasting at the front of the thigh (the quadriceps)
  

These cartilages can be injured in a sudden incident such as twisting or squatting, or can suffer ‘micro’ injury due to repeated load. The cartilages can also have degenerative changes.  Because cartilages cannot heal themselves, a treatment regime should be implemented immediately to prevent long term knee problems especially further degeneration.

• Commencing Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation immediately. Use crutches if unable to weight bear without pain
• We recommend an immediate physiotherapy assessment to assist in diagnosing your cartilage injury and determine if you need referral to a Sports Physician or Orthopaedic Surgeon
• If you are injured at work or in sport, our practitioners have approved knee conditioning programs for your cartilage injury that will get you back on track sooner
• Rebuilding muscles is imperitave for a full return to activity or sport. Do not assume that your muscles automatically return after knee surgery. See our exercise program options
• Walking with a limp is not advised and you must consult a professional immediately