Knee Injuries

Knee injuries can be very painful to endure. They are caused in a number of ways and recovery time varies for each unique injury. Often, a disabling knee injury can mean missed work, doctors visits, and even surgery.

Types of Knee Injuries

There are two main categories of knee injuries: Acute and overuse. Acute knee injuries happen suddenly. These usually occur during a fall or when taking a blow to the knee. They include sprains, torn ligaments, torn cartilage, knee fractures, and ruptured knee tendons. Overuse knee injuries usually occur when the intensity or duration of an activity is increased too quickly. Injuries include knee tendonitis, muscle strains, knee bursitis, and iliotibial band syndrome.

Treatment

Acute knee injuries are usually associated with abrupt pain and should be treated immediately. While waiting for medical treatment, swelling and pain in the knee can be reduced by applying an ice pack to the area for 15-20 minutes out of every hour.

Overuse injuries can take longer to identify, developing over days, weeks, or months. Frequently overuse injuries can initially be treated at home with the RICE method, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.

Rest means decreasing your activity, or taking a break from strenuous activities altogether. Applying ice can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Just take care to not apply ice for more than 20 minutes per hour, as any longer can lead to frostbite. Compression with an elastic bandage can also reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Lastly, elevation of the knee with a pillow to rest above the level of the heart can reduce inflammation.

With any knee pain or injury it is recommended that you seek medical attention for a professional opinion and possible treatment. Regardless of the injury, when your knee is hurt recovery time is necessary and can be a drawn out, painful process.

Contact Us

If you have suffered from a work-related knee injury, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Having experienced Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyers on your side is invaluable for making sure you get the help you need. To discuss your case with a lawyer, contact the Law Offices of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today at 610-667-7511.