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Cruciate Ligament Knee Injury |
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Ligaments are tough bands that are attached to muscles. These ligaments hold the joints together. The cruciate ligaments are the two ligaments that criss-cross and form the hinge inside the knee joint. They connect the bone above the knee with a bone below the knee.
The cruciate ligaments may be injured any time the knee withstands any type of force that separates the bones. Injuries to the cruciate ligament are common in running, jumping, and contact sports. In car accidents, in which the person does not wear a seat belt, ligaments may be injured when knees are thrown into the dashboard. Someone who is out of shape physically or who has had a previous knee injury is more prone to knee injuries. FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES TO HELP PREVENT SERIOUS KNEE INJURIES. - keep in good physical shape because strong muscles will support your knee
- wear proper shoes when you participate in your sport
- use appropriate knee protection and equipment
- always wear seat belts
Cruciate injuries can be sprains or tears of the ligament. A mild sprain gives mild pain. Treatment is usually rest and support with an elastic bandage. Ice and anti-inflammatory medication like aspirin or ibuprofen will assist with swelling and discomfort. These medications should not be taken without approval from your doctor if you have an ulcer, kidney problems, an allergy to aspirin, or if on a blood-thinning medication. Recovery is slow, but usually complete. SYMPTOMS OF A SERIOUS CRUCIATE INJURY ARE: - severe pain at the time of the injury
- feeling or hearing a pop or tear inside the knee
- immediate swelling and bruising at the knee and
- instability and giving out of the knee after injury
A severe sprain or tear of any ligament is a serious injury and may require special bracing or surgery. See your doctor if you have knee pain that does not go away. It is important to see your doctor for all serious injuries. Article #7608 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
