Pain and loss of full functioning abilities in the knee or lower leg are common in many sports related injuries. Knee problems can be especially painful and must be treated by doctors skilled in working specifically with the knee joint.

Meniscal Tear:

This type of knee injury is fairly common in sports where turning or twisting of the knee is performed. The menisci (two in each knee) can become injured from a direct impact to the knee, repetitive and frequent deep squatting, or through degeneration from aging. There are many different treatments and rehabilitation techniques available for this condition based on how the injury occurred.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome:

Iliotibial Band Syndrome is a leading cause for knee pain in those who run. Symptoms of this syndrome can vary from a stinging sensation felt just above the knee joint to swelling in the knee. The pain, generally felt as the foot hits the ground, is not always immediate but may increase with time.

Collateral Ligament Sprain:

The collateral ligaments are in control of the sideways motion of the knee and are used to brace the knee against unusual movement. Direct contact or sudden twisting motions are the most common activities that result in this type of knee injury and pain.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome:

This syndrome is caused by a variety of reasons such as injury, overuse, excessive weight, or kneecaps that are not aligned properly. The pain resulting from this condition can be felt in the front of the knee, specifically when the person sits with bent knees or tries to squat or jump. This pain can also be significantly evident while going up or down stairs. Treatments for this condition will depend on the cause.

Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome:

Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome, often referred to “Shin Splints”, are often found in athletes and in those who run often. Pain from this syndrome occurs in the lower leg area and can be disabling if it is not treated properly. Treatment options vary and often include rehabilitation. It rarely requires any type of surgery but consultation with sports medicine professionals can be beneficial in terms of learning proper training techniques.

Patellar Tendonitis:

Patellar Tendonitis occurs when the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone is damaged. This tendon is used for running, kicking, and jumping and as a result, certain athletes may experience this problem more so than others. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are commonly used to treat this condition.

Gastrocnemius Strain:

Gastrocnemius Strain is a calf muscle strain and is caused when the calf muscle is stretched too far, too suddenly. The damage can range from mild to severe and in some extreme cases, the muscle may even tear. In most cases, physical therapy and rehabilitation can bring about successful results.