With commonsense and proper prevention, many common Knee Injuries
can be avoided
If you have ever had a knee injury, you know it can be a real pain.
Here is how to lower the risk of common knee injuries.
Types of knee injuries
Knee injuries can affect different structures within the knee,
including:
- Bone, resulting in fractures and dislocations
- Cartilage, resulting in tears in or degeneration
- Ligaments, resulting in sprains
- Tendons, resulting in strains, ruptures and inflammation
- Bursa, resulting in infection or inflammation
Only a healthcare professional can diagnose your injury.
How to prevent knee injuries
To help prevent against knee injuries, consider the following:
- Keep the weight off. Shedding extra pounds helps to reduce the
forces placed on the knee during both athletics and everyday activities,
including walking. Keeping your weight down also may reduce the
likelihood of ligament and tendon injuries.
- Stay limber. Many knee injuries are the result of pulling tight
muscles. Follow a proper stretching and strengthening routine
to help cut down on knee injuries.
- Consider your options. If you have chronic knee pain as a result
of previous knee injuries, you might want to give up running and
go swimming instead. Swimming is easier on the body's muscles
and joints but still provides a great workout.
- Respect your body. Overdoing it can lead to knee injuries. Listen
to your body. If you feel pain during exercise, change what you
are doing. If knee pain persists, stop what you are doing and
see your healthcare professional.
- Respect yourself. If you are tired, call it a night. Many knee
injuries occur when people are tired.
- Protect yourself. Certain knee injuries can be prevented with
protective gear like knee braces and pads.
For more information about knee injuries, talk to your healthcare
professional.
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