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Minor knee soreness caused by overuse usually can be self-treated with aspirin or ibuprofen and RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation). A week or two of treatment should yield significant improvement.
Knee sprains or mild traumas also can be treated with RICE, but see a doctor if there is no improvement in two or three days.
Seek medical attention immediately if you sustain a heavy blow, if you fall and hear a popping noise, if your knee is unstable and won't bear your weight or if it clicks or locks.
Knee surgery options Knee injuries may be treated through arthroscopic surgery or through "open" surgery. Arthroscopic surgery is done using a small (less than 1/4" diameter) camera attached to a video monitor inserted into the knee joint.
Arthroscopy may be used for:
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Removal or repair of cartilage
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Repair or reconstruction of ligament
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Treatment of arthritis
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Removal of inflamed synovial tissue
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Meniscal transplant
Open knee surgery may be used for:
Arthroscopic knee surgery Arthroscopic surgery is often done on an outpatient basis, depending on the extent of the surgery. The more simple procedures are done using a local or regional anesthetic, while general anesthesia is used for more extensive surgery. During the procedure:
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A small camera attached to a video monitor is inserted into the knee joint. In some cases, you may be able to watch the procedure on a monitor
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Saline is pumped in to expand the joint and control bleeding
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The surgeon will make one to four other small incisions to insert other instruments, such as a blunt hook to pull on tissues, a burr to remove bone, a shaver to remove damaged or unwanted soft tissues or a heat probe to remove inflammation
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After surgery the saline is drained, the incisions are closed and a dressing is applied
Open knee surgery Open surgery may be done using general anesthesia or a regional anesthesia such as an epidural. The surgery will vary with the type of injury. The surgeon will repair the injury, close the knee and apply a dressing.
Knee surgery recovery Speed of recovery varies by person and type of injury. As you recover, you can aid the healing process by taking it easy. Your knee may be bandaged, wrapped or iced to keep swelling down. You may be given a brace to protect your knee to help improve your range of motion and speed healing, or you may need to use crutches for a while. Keep your leg raised above your heart whenever you can so fluid can drain away and swelling is reduced. Surgery is often followed by a rehabilitation program.
Knee surgery risks The risks of serious complications from knee surgery are minimal, but as with any surgery, there is a small chance of:
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