Unexplained Knee Injuries: Causes and Implications - Orthopedics

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Understanding unexplained knee injuries can be quite complex, especially when the initial trauma does not seem severe enough to warrant immediate medical attention. In your case, the incident you described from six years ago, where you felt a sudden displacement of a tendon or ligament in your knee, could indicate a few potential underlying issues that might not have been fully addressed at the time.

Firstly, it’s important to understand the anatomy of the knee. The knee joint is stabilized by several ligaments, including the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL). Additionally, the knee contains menisci, which are cartilage structures that act as shock absorbers between the femur and tibia. When you mentioned feeling a "筋" (which translates to a tendon or ligament) that seemed to slip out of place, it is possible that you experienced a sprain or strain of one of these ligaments or tendons.

The sensation of a tendon or ligament "popping" or "slipping" can be indicative of a few things:
1. Ligament Sprain: A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn. Depending on the severity, this can lead to instability in the knee joint, which may explain the feeling of the ligament moving out of place.

2. Meniscus Injury: A tear in the meniscus can also cause a popping sensation and may lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. This type of injury can sometimes go unnoticed initially, especially if there is no immediate swelling or severe pain.

3. Patellar Dislocation: If the patella (kneecap) dislocates, it can cause a similar sensation of something slipping out of place. This can happen during activities that involve sudden changes in direction or impact.

Given that you experienced this incident at a young age and did not seek medical attention, it is possible that you may have sustained a minor injury that has since led to chronic issues. Over time, untreated ligament or meniscus injuries can lead to joint instability, increased wear and tear on the cartilage, and even the development of osteoarthritis.

As for the implications of your injury, here are a few considerations:
- Chronic Pain or Instability: If the ligaments or tendons were indeed injured, you may experience ongoing pain, swelling, or a feeling of instability in the knee, especially during activities that put stress on the joint.

- Increased Risk of Future Injuries: An unstable knee joint can lead to compensatory movements that may increase the risk of further injuries to the knee or other joints.

- Potential for Degenerative Changes: Over time, untreated injuries can lead to degenerative changes in the knee joint, which may result in chronic pain and reduced mobility.

To address your concerns, it would be advisable to consult with an orthopedic specialist who can perform a thorough evaluation, including physical examinations and possibly imaging studies like an MRI. This will help determine the exact nature of any injuries and guide appropriate treatment options. Treatment may range from physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee, to bracing for support, or in some cases, surgical intervention if there are significant tears or instability.

In summary, while it may seem that the initial injury was minor, the long-term effects on your knee could be significant. Seeking medical advice now can help prevent further complications and improve your knee function moving forward.