Phoenix Knee Sprains & Fracture Lawyer

Knee Sprain vs. Knee Fracture

A knee sprain is an injury in which the ligaments connected to the knee are stretched or torn. Ligaments are bands or sheets of fibrous tissue that connect two or more bones or cartilages. They also serve as a support for fasciae or muscles.

A knee fracture is a term used to describe a medical condition in which there is a bone break in the knee joint. The knee is made up of the femur and the tibia, which connect to form the knee joint. The patella is a small thin bone that covers the knee joint and allows for better leverage when the knee straightens.

Symptoms

The following are symptoms of a knee sprain:

• Swelling/Puffiness
• Redness
• Bruising
• Increased Pain when Shifting Weight
• Warmth in the Knee

The following are symptoms of a knee fracture:

• Severe Pain
• Severe Swelling
• Severe Tenderness
• Knee Weakness
• Bruising
• Numbness
• Knee Locking
• Inability to stand/walk on injured knee

Causes of a Knee Fracture & Sprain

A knee fracture can be caused by, but is not limited to, the following:

• A vehicle accident
• A job-related accident
• A slip and fall accident
• A sports injury
• A heavy object
• Climbing steps

Consequences

Depending on the severity of your injury, a knee fracture or sprain may affect various areas of your daily life. The typical knee injury may cause minor inconveniences at home and work; however, most patients receive a knee cast or splint with crutches.

Treatment

The RICE method is usually helpful in treating a knee fracture.

• R – Rest
• I – Ice
• C – Compression
• E – Elevation

In order to prevent the injury from worsening, a knee cast or splint may be used until the fracture has healed as much as necessary. In addition, a walker, cane, or crutches will be used to assist in walking.

Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or acetaminophen, can also help with the pain and swelling. If you are experiencing severe pain, a stronger pain medication may be used.

Once the pain starts to subside, you will work on strengthening knee muscles by using a series of walking exercises; physical therapy may also be necessary. Depending on the severity of the injury, surgery may be required.

Contact Us

If you received a knee sprain or fracture due to an accident, you can contact the Law Offices of Michael Cordova via online or by calling us at (602) 265-6700.