Knee Cartilage Injuries: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments - Orthopedics

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Knee cartilage injuries can be a significant source of discomfort and functional impairment, especially following trauma such as a car accident. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and recovery.


Causes of Knee Cartilage Injuries
Knee cartilage injuries often occur due to trauma, such as a fall or a car accident, where the knee is subjected to excessive force. The cartilage in the knee, particularly the menisci (the C-shaped cartilage that cushions the knee joint), can be damaged during such incidents. Other potential causes include:
1. Acute Injury: Sudden trauma can lead to tears in the cartilage, especially if the knee is twisted while bearing weight.

2. Degenerative Changes: Over time, wear and tear can weaken the cartilage, making it more susceptible to injury.

3. Repetitive Stress: Activities that involve repetitive knee bending or heavy lifting can also contribute to cartilage damage.


Symptoms of Knee Cartilage Injuries
The symptoms you are experiencing, such as pain when kneeling, a sensation of numbness or tingling, and audible sounds (crepitus) when bending the knee, are common indicators of cartilage injury. Other symptoms may include:
- Swelling and stiffness in the knee joint.

- Limited range of motion.

- Pain during activities that put stress on the knee, such as squatting or climbing stairs.

- A feeling of instability or "giving way" in the knee.


Diagnosis
To accurately diagnose a knee cartilage injury, a healthcare provider will typically perform a physical examination and may order imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans. These tests help visualize the cartilage and assess the extent of the injury.


Treatment Options
1. Conservative Management:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, such as kneeling or squatting.

- Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation program can help strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and restore function. This may include exercises to enhance quadriceps and hamstring strength.

- Ice and Compression: Applying ice to the knee can help reduce swelling and pain. Compression wraps may also provide support.

2. Medications:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate pain and inflammation. However, if you have allergies to NSAIDs, discuss alternative pain relief options with your doctor.

- In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation.

3. Surgical Options:
- If conservative treatments fail and symptoms persist, surgical options may be considered. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows the surgeon to visualize and repair damaged cartilage.

- In more severe cases, procedures such as microfracture or osteochondral grafting may be necessary to promote cartilage healing.


Prognosis and Recovery
The prognosis for knee cartilage injuries varies depending on the severity of the damage and the treatment approach. Many individuals experience significant improvement with conservative management, while others may require surgical intervention for optimal recovery.

Conclusion
Given your ongoing symptoms and lack of improvement despite rehabilitation, it is essential to follow up with an orthopedic specialist who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and discuss further treatment options. Early intervention is key to preventing further damage and ensuring a better outcome. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in low-impact exercises can help protect your knee joint and promote overall joint health.