Diagnosis and Treatment of Stress Fractures of the Knee in Wake County
What is a Stress Fracture of the Knee?
As the name suggests, a stress fracture is a tiny crack in the bone caused by repeated stress on the area. Stress fractures of the knee might present as swelling and knee pain that is less severe than a broken bone. Often, athletes or avid runners suffer from stress fractures due to repetitive running and jumping motions. While stress fractures of the knee may not be as painful or debilitating as broken bones or other injuries, if left untreated, they can cause more serious issues.
Causes of Stress Fractures of the Knee
Stress fractures of the knee are often caused by repetitive motions, such as those performed by long-distance runners. These repetitive activities are more likely to cause stress fractures when increases in a person’s routine are implemented too quickly. Specific causes of stress fractures include:
- Overuse
- Repetitive pounding (as with high-impact activities such as running or jumping)
Stress Fractures of the Knee Risk Factors
Risk factors for stress fractures of the knee include:
- Obesity
- Osteoporosis
- Poor muscle strength
- Being a woman, especially with absent or irregular periods
- Participating in high-impact sports like running, track, basketball, etc
- Previous stress fractures
- Increasing activity too quickly
Symptoms of Stress Fractures of the Knee
Patients with stress fractures of the knee will often experience a variety of symptoms. The type of pain you experience can vary between different types of knee injuries, so it is important to be aware of what you should be watching out for. If you notice any of the following symptoms in the area of your knee, you may be suffering from a stress fracture.
- Anterior knee pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Limping
- Tenderness to the touch in one particular area (pinpoint pain)
- Pain that worsens during activity and lessens with rest
- Pain that is constant, whether you are resting or performing activities
How are Stress Fractures of the Knee Diagnosed?
Your doctor will listen to your symptoms, take your medical history, and perform a physical examination. Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and bone scans may be performed to get a clear picture of your stress fracture.
Treatment Options for Stress Fractures of the Knee at Raleigh Orthopaedic
In most cases, stress fractures of the knee will only require nonsurgical interventions to heal. If you do not address the stress fracture early on, it may result in a complete fracture, or a displaced fracture, which would require surgical intervention.
Resting, icing, and elevating the knee; reducing or eliminating activities or sports that cause you further pain; and using crutches to help rest the knee and allow it to heal are all nonsurgical strategies that will help you recover from a stress fracture.
If you do not take steps to rest or heal your stress fracture, your condition may worsen. The stress fracture may become a complete fracture, requiring immobilization. Your stress fracture may even become a displaced fracture. With displaced fractures, surgical intervention such as ORIF surgery is required. During ORIF surgery, your doctor will use pins or screws to fix the displaced piece of bone into place.
Stress Fractures of the Knee Recovery Time
Recovery from stress fractures of the knee varies depending upon the person and whether you need surgical intervention. In most cases, conservative treatments will ensure that you are back to your regular routine within 6 to 8 weeks. If you require surgical intervention, you will be restricted from walking for a period of time, and then go through a course of physical therapy to get you back on track.
How Can I Prevent Stress Fractures of the Knee?
Preventing stress fractures of the knee is possible if you take a few precautions with your exercise routines. Techniques for preventing stress fractures include:
- Cross training – varying your exercise routines can help you avoid repetitive movements that cause stress fractures
- Increase your workout load slowly and be sure to incorporate plenty of rest
- Choose low-impact exercises or sports to reduce your likelihood of suffering a stress fracture
- Eat a well-balanced diet to get all the nutrients required to keep your bones healthy and strong
- Use the correct type of footwear for your activity or sport
Knee Specialists at Raleigh Orthopaedic
If you believe that you have fractured your knee, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists at Raleigh Orthopaedic today. The following knee specialists are available to help you.
Expert Knee Care at Raleigh Orthopaedic
For over 100 years, we have served patients in and around Wake County and provided the highest level of orthopedic care. Our orthopedic specialists come from a variety of medical backgrounds, ensuring that all of our patients have access to the specific type of care they need. We want to help you get back on track to positive orthopedic health – give us a call today or book your appointment online to get started with Raleigh Orthopaedic.