Knee basics - ligament problems

 

These are the more common ligament problems:

Sprained cruciate ligament

Instability of the knee can follow an incident where the cruciate ligament is partially, but not completely, torn.

Torn cruciate ligament

Usually a dramatic event during
a sporting activity. Loud noise of a 'pop', and
pain, and a sudden feeling of instability of the
knee. Most often the anterior cruciate ligament,
which is more serious than a posterior cruciate
ligament tear.

 

Sprained collateral ligament

Injury may lead to a sprain, or
partial tear, of the ligaments on the side of
the knee, usually the inner one (medial collateral).
This leads to pain over the tear and maybe some
bruising.

 

Torn collateral ligament

Total break of the collateral
ligament. Leads to pain over the ligament and
also a feeling of instability.

 

Other ligaments

There are other smaller ligaments in the knee. These may also suffer tears and diagnosis may be more subtle and difficult.

The information offered on the website is designed to support, not to replace, the relationship between patient and clinician. The revenue from this site is derived from context-sensitive advertising (Google Ads), affiliate advertising and individual donations from bulletin board users.