Medically Reviewed by Andrew Staples, PA-C
Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy your favorite activities. Whether you’re running, playing sports, or hiking, it’s important to be mindful of knee injuries that can put a damper on your summer fun. Here at Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic, we want to help you stay active and injury-free. Let’s explore some common knee injuries and understand more about them.
1. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries
The ACL is one of the major ligaments in your knee, crucial for maintaining stability. It’s often injured during sports that involve sudden stops, jumps, or changes in direction, such as soccer, basketball, and football. Symptoms of an ACL injury can include a loud “pop” or a “popping” sensation in the knee, severe pain and inability to continue activity, rapid swelling, loss of range of motion, and a feeling of instability or “giving way” with weight-bearing in the knee.
2. Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injuries
The MCL is located on the inner side of your knee and helps stabilize the joint by preventing it from bending inward. MCL injuries are common in contact sports where the knee might be pushed inward by a blow to the outer side, such as in football or hockey. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, and a feeling of instability in the knee.
3. Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
Runner’s knee refers to pain around the kneecap, often caused by overuse or misalignment of the knee joint. This condition is common among runners and athletes who engage in activities that put repetitive stress on the knee. Symptoms include a dull, aching pain around the front of the knee, which may worsen with activities like running, squatting, or climbing stairs.
4. Meniscus Tear
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between your thighbone and shinbone. Meniscus tears can occur during activities that involve twisting or rotating the knee, especially when the foot is planted and the knee is bent. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee fully.
5. Knee Sprain
A knee sprain involves the stretching or tearing of the ligaments that stabilize the knee joint. This can occur from sudden movements, falls, or direct blows to the knee. Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the sprain but often include pain, swelling, bruising, and limited range of motion.
6. Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper’s Knee)
Patellar tendinitis, also known as jumper’s knee, is an inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone. It’s common in sports that involve frequent jumping, such as basketball and volleyball. Symptoms include pain and tenderness at the base of the kneecap, especially during or after physical activity.
7. Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force or overuse. They commonly occur in weight-bearing bones, such as the tibia (shinbone) near the knee. Symptoms include pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, as well as possible swelling and tenderness around the knee.
Get Expert Knee Care in Wake County
Understanding these common knee injuries can help you recognize symptoms early and seek appropriate treatment. If you experience any knee pain or suspect an injury, don’t hesitate to contact Raleigh Orthopaedic. Our team of specialists are here to help you get back on your feet and enjoy the season to the fullest.
The knee specialists at Raleigh Orthopaedic include Dr. Albright, Dr. Barker, Dr. Boes, Dr. Cadet, Dr. Chiavetta, Dr. Dare, Dr. Eskildsen, Dr. Isbell,  Dr. James, Dr. McNabb, Dr. Quinlan, Dr. Watters, and Dr. Wyker, who are trained to diagnose causes of knee pain and treat minor injuries, as well as perform total joint replacement procedures in Wake County. Learn more about our knee specialists HERE.
Schedule an Appointment with Raleigh Orthopaedic
If you’re dealing with pain, discomfort, or an injury, don’t wait to get the care you need. Our expert team at Raleigh Orthopaedic is here to help you feel better, move better, and get back to doing what you love. Schedule an appointment online or call us at 919-781-5600 to be seen—often within 48 hours. For immediate care, we offer walk-in orthopedic urgent care services. Click here for hours and locations.
Disclaimer: The information on this site is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or medical judgment. Always consult a physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition or treatment.