Recovering from Knee Injuries

Knee injuries are quite common these days due to our speedy lifestyle and faster modes of transport. This development of transport has been a double-edged sword in affecting our joints, by firstly causing physical inactivity and secondly by causing an increased incidence of high velocity traumas in the form of bike and car accidents. The knee joint is one of the most complex and sturdy joints of the body, which firmly supports the body in the standing position. It may appear to provide simple bending and straightening movements, like a door hinge, but in reality it also provides rotatory movements, which help in locking and unlocking of the knee. It is only due to these special movements that a lot of energy is conserved and properly utilized during walking and standing.

Knee injuries can range from trivial contusions and hemarthroses, to severe fractures, like proximal tibial fractures and patella fractures. Recovering from a knee injury is always complicated by the fibrosis and deposition of calcium in the tendons. Preventing these complications and regaining movements of the knee joints is only possible with the help of appropriate physical therapy. This is also useful in reducing pain and preventing deformities that may arise over a period of time. Hence, treatment of knee injuries are never complete without the intervention of a physical therapist.

Physical therapy consists of several modalities of treatment and each type of physical therapy has its own advantages and shortcomings. The modalities commonly used are

CPM - Continuous Passive Motion - is used after knee replacement surgery and also in knee injury rehabilitation. The leg of a person is attached to the unit with velcro straps, and the machine provides slow passive movement to the knee joint to help improve the range of motion and stimulate and stretch the muscles.

Range of Motion Exercises are taught by the physiotherapist and are to be performed by a patient on a daily basis. These exercises are helpful in regaining the complete range of knee joint movements.

Toning Exercises are simple exercises that improve the strength of the muscles without putting any strain on the injured parts of the knee. These can be performed as many times in a day as possible with a minimum of 5-6 times in a day at least.They are used to maintain and improve the strength of muscles during the immobilized state just after knee injuries.

If these modalities of physical therapy are properly used, a person can have a complete recovery from even the most severe type of broken knee injuries, without any complications.

Dr Gauresh - Orthopedist and Health Writer for Orthoped

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