What damage can be done by falling on your knee?

A high-impact injury such as a fall or a blow to the side of the knee can cause one or more of these ligaments to tear. Surgery is often necessary to repair a torn ligament. Without proper care, a torn ligament can lead to chronic pain and disability of the injured knee.

How long do knee ligaments take to heal?

After a stretch injury (sprain) or partial tear to the MCL, the ligament has completely healed in most people after three months. If there is a complete tear, recovery may take a little longer but most people are back to their usual activities after 6-9 months.

How do you know if you tore a ligament in your knee?

A loud pop or snap during the injury. Swelling within the first 24 hours after the injury. A feeling of looseness in the joint. Inability to put weight on the joint without pain, or any weight at all.

What should you do if you fall on your knee cap?

How are contusions treated?

1. Rest. Rest the area whenever possible.
2. Ice. Apply a cold compress to the area to reduce swelling.
3. Compress. Compress the bruised area with a wrap or bandage to reduce swelling.
4. Elevate. If possible, raise the affected area above your heart.

Why does my knee hurt so bad after a fall?

This is common when the fall happens on a flexed knee – lots of pain, but it generally gets better quick. Since the symptoms don’t include the tell-tale signs of an internal problem in the knee, like severe swelling and the inability to weight bear, this most likely is just a contusion or bruise.

What should I do if I Fall and hurt my knee?

Warnings and Precautions. Minor knee pain and bruising not associated with difficulty moving your knee or bearing weight after a fall often responds well to home treatment with periodic application of an ice pack, rest and over-the-counter pain medication.

What happens to your knee when you fall and twist it?

A fall that involves twisting of your knee can damage one or more of these ligaments resulting in pain and joint instability. Overstretching or a partial or complete tear of a ligament is called a sprain. The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is particularly suceptible to injury.

How do doctors diagnose knee pain after a fall?

To diagnose the cause of knee pain after a fall, your doctor will start by reviewing your medical history to determine if an underlying condition, such as an unstable knee joint, led to the fall. Your doctor will also do a physical examination of the knee.