Knee Ligament Repair

Knee ligament repair can become necessary when certain sports injuries cause damage to the vital ligaments that enable your knee to move and function properly.

Sports Medicine Knee Ligament Repair

Knee injuries are a common occurrence in sports, especially among athletes who engage in high-impact activities. The knee joint comprises several ligaments that work together to provide stability and support to the joint. However, due to the nature of sports, these ligaments are often subjected to excessive strain, leading to injuries. Sports medicine knee ligament repair is a medical procedure that involves the reconstruction or repair of damaged knee ligaments.

The procedure is typically performed by an orthopedic surgeon who specialises in sports medicine. The goal of the procedure is to restore the function and stability of the knee joint, enabling the athlete to return to their pre-injury level of activity. The procedure involves several steps, including a thorough evaluation of the injury, imaging tests, and surgical intervention. To get started, reach out to our Glasgow offices and set up your consultation today.

Understanding Knee Ligament Injuries

Knee ligament injuries are common among athletes and can affect their performance and overall quality of life. Understanding the types and causes of knee ligament injuries can help athletes take preventative measures and receive prompt treatment when necessary. The knee joint is supported by four main ligaments: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL).

ACL injuries are the most common and severe type of knee ligament injury. They typically occur during sudden changes in direction or traumatic impacts to the knee. PCL injuries are less common and often occur when the knee is hyperextended. MCL and LCL injuries are usually the result of impact to the outer or inner knee, respectively.

Causes of Knee Ligament Injuries

Athletes who participate in high-impact sports, such as football, basketball, and soccer, are at a higher risk for knee ligament injuries.

Women are also more prone to ACL injuries due to differences in anatomy and hormonal factors. Knee ligament injuries can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Direct trauma to the knee
Twisting or hyperextending the knee joint
Overuse or repetitive stress on the knee ligaments
Poor conditioning or muscle imbalances
Improper technique during sports or exercise

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Non-surgical treatment options are recommended for patients with mild to moderate knee ligament injuries. These treatment options include:

RICE Therapy

Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation are the primary components of RICE therapy. RICE therapy helps reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation in the knee.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy involves exercises that help strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve the range of motion after RICE therapy to help restore normal function to the knee.

Bracing

Bracing is used to support the knee and prevent further injury. Bracing is often used in conjunction with RICE therapy and physical therapy.

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Surgical Treatment Options

Surgical treatment options are recommended for patients with severe knee ligament injuries. These treatment options include:

ACL Reconstruction: ACL reconstruction involves replacing the torn ACL with a graft. The graft can be taken from the patient's own body or from a donor.
MCL Reconstruction: MCL reconstruction involves replacing the torn MCL with a graft, which can be taken from the patient's own body or from a donor.
PCL Reconstruction: PCL reconstruction involves replacing the torn PCL with a graft in a method that is similar to MCL reconstruction
Meniscus Repair: Meniscus repair involves repairing the torn meniscus and is often recommended for patients with meniscus tears

Rehabilitation After Knee Ligament Repair

After undergoing knee ligament repair surgery, rehabilitation is a critical part of the recovery process. The goal of rehabilitation is to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion to the knee joint, and to help you regain your ability to perform daily activities and return to sports. Rehabilitation typically begins within a few days of surgery and may last for several months, depending on the extent of the injury and the type of surgery performed. The rehabilitation program is designed to progress gradually, with the intensity and duration of exercises increasing over time.

Your rehabilitation program may include a combination of exercises, stretching, and physical therapy, which will be designed to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles. Stretching exercises are also important to improve flexibility and range of motion in the knee joint. Physical therapy may include modalities such as heat, ice, and electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and swelling. In addition, manual therapy techniques such as massage and joint mobilisation may be used to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness.