Hyperextended knee
Hyperextended knee or hyperextension is basically an injury originating from knee that goes beyond its normal range of motion. In short, Common Knee Injuries it is not as the knee is bent back on itself in the straight position. The result of hyperextension may range from a minor to severe injury. A mild knee injury may heal within two to four weeks time. A severe knee injury, on the other hand, usually requires a surgical operation as well as the administration of medicines intended to heal the damaged tissue fast. There are even cases when a hyperextended knee leads to permanent disabilities. This, however, happens when no proper care or treatment is applied on the patient.
Parts of the Knees that Can Be Damaged
The most common parts of the knee that can be subjected to severe damage are the cartilage, the ligaments, and other stabilizing structures or formations in the knee area. A knee that has absorbed a sudden and strong force due to accidents such as a car crash, the injury that one might experience can be of a high degree. More often, the knee becomes dislocated while its ligaments are usually detached from adjoining muscles and bones. This, in short, could really cause pain of the highest magnitude.
Common Causes of a Hyperextended Knee
Almost any type of accidents involving the knee can cause hyperextension. However, the most common causes are vehicular accidents and sports injury. Athletes are usually the ones who are more vulnerable to hyperextended knee damages. People who are into hardcore sports that demand extensive lower body movement are most likely to suffer from a hyperextended knee.
Immediate Hyperextended Knee Symptoms
The common symptoms of a hyperextended knee are immediate and unlike that of other injury or illness, you can easily recognize them. One of the most common symptoms of hyperextension is a popping sound that feels as if ones knee has been disconnected. A sharp pain at the back and sides of ones knee can also be felt. During the first few hours after the injury, knee swelling will also occur making the patient incapable of moving the injured part. There may be cases when the affected individual could still walk. However, every step can be very painful.
Treating Hyperextended Knee
A Rehabilitation Hyperextended Knee recovery time would be implemented for a damaged knee due to hyperextension. This can vary according to the severity of the injury. Mild injury may heal within two to four weeks while severe cases of hyperextension may require nine months of healing sessions. An immediate way to treat and hyperextended knee is the use of crutches. Elevating the injured limb while the patient is sitting or lying down would also help to decrease the pain and avoid more damage. To ease the pain, ice can be applied on the damage area. For longer lasting pain relief, pain killers can be taken by the patient. Acetaminophen is one of the most common medicines that are recommended by doctors. For mild hyperextension, rest and the physical therapy which would involve Exercises for Hyperextended Knee. For a swollen knee due to major ligament damage as a result of hyperextention , surgery may be required.