Knee pain: When to worry and what comes next
By Dr Abdul Razak Hussin, Consultant Orthopaedic and Sports Surgeon, Ara Damansara Medical Centre (ADMC)
Who is at risk?
Knee injuries can affect anyone, not just athletes. Whether you run, play sports on weekends, or hike, a sudden twist or misstep can cause serious damage. The most commonly injured knee structures are the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the meniscus, a C-shaped cartilage that cushions the joint.
Despite this, many ignore knee pain, assuming it will heal on its own. Unfortunately, untreated ACL or meniscus injuries can lead to instability, chronic pain, and early arthritis.
How do these injuries occur?
Knee injuries result from either direct impact (e.g., a football tackle) or sudden, non-contact movements (e.g., twisting while the foot remains planted). Many individuals report hearing a distinct “pop” at the time of injury, followed by swelling and pain. In severe cases, the knee becomes unstable, making movement difficult.
Mild injuries may allow continued activity, but without treatment, symptoms often worsen over time.
Do you need surgery?
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Mild cases may improve with physiotherapy and strengthening exercises, while severe ACL and meniscus tears often require surgery.
Doctors typically use X-rays to rule out fractures and MRIs to assess ligament and cartilage damage. If left untreated, a damaged ACL or meniscus can cause ongoing instability, especially during activities like descending stairs or walking on uneven surfaces. This can further damage the meniscus and cartilage, leading to persistent pain and arthritis.
What happens during surgery?
ACL reconstruction replaces the torn ligament with a tendon graft, usually from the hamstring or patellar tendon. Meniscus treatment varies based on severity—doctors aim to repair it when possible, but in cases of extensive damage, a partial meniscectomy may be necessary.
After surgery, most patients start walking with crutches almost immediately. Those undergoing meniscus repair may need to limit weight-bearing activities for proper healing. A knee brace is typically required for about six weeks.
Recovery and rehabilitation
Recovery takes time, and returning to high-impact sports should only be considered after a full year to allow proper healing. Post-surgical rehabilitation is crucial, with modern advancements like bioactive scaffolds, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and robot-assisted therapy improving outcomes.
Emerging treatments, including stem cell therapy and virtual reality rehabilitation, also enhance recovery and make physiotherapy more engaging.
Early intervention matters
Persistent knee pain, swelling, and instability should never be ignored. Seeking medical attention early can prevent further damage and improve recovery outcomes.
While knee injuries can be accidental, understanding their causes and symptoms allows individuals to seek timely treatment. The goal is to restore function, prevent complications, and help patients return to daily activities pain-free.
Category: Features, Wellness and Complementary Therapies
