Summer is a time for outdoor activities and enjoying the sunshine. It’s a season when people are more likely to engage in sports and physical activities like hiking. Unfortunately, with increased physical activity comes an increased risk of injury, particularly to the knees. Common summertime knee injuries can put a damper on your fun and activities, so it’s important to be aware of them and take steps to prevent them.
Otho Sport & Spine Physicians has 49 clinics, imaging centers, and surgery centers across the United States that can address mild to serious knee injuries. Here are some of the most common injuries we address during the summertime.
Meniscus Tears
One of the most common summertime knee injuries is a meniscus tear. The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in the knee that provides cushioning and stability. When the knee is subjected to sudden twisting or impact, the meniscus can tear, causing pain, swelling and limited mobility. Meniscus tears are often seen in sports that involve pivoting and sudden changes in direction, such as soccer, basketball and tennis.
Patellar Tendonitis
Another common knee injury during the summer months is patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper’s knee. This condition is an overuse injury that occurs when the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone becomes inflamed. Activities that involve repetitive jumping, such as volleyball and basketball, can strain the patellar tendon and lead to pain and swelling. Beach volleyball is a particular culprit that can result in this injury during the summertime.
ACL Injuries
Moreover, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are prevalent in sports like soccer, football and basketball, where sudden stops, changes in direction and landing from jumps are common. Hikers can also sustain these injuries in steep or arduous terrain. An ACL injury is typically a severe setback, often requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
Strains and Sprains
General overuse and strains are also common in the knees, particularly during the summer months when people are more active. Running, hiking and cycling, while great forms of exercise, can also lead to strains and overuse injuries if not approached with caution and proper training.
Keep Your Knees Safe
Preventing summertime knee injuries is key to enjoying a healthy, active summer. Here are some tips to help keep your knees safe:
- Warm up properly before engaging in physical activity.
- Strengthen the muscles around the knee through targeted exercises.
- Use proper equipment and footwear for your chosen activity.
- Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts to avoid overuse.
- Listen to your body and rest when needed.
If you do experience knee pain or injury, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Ignoring knee pain or trying to “push through the pain” can exacerbate the problem and lead to long-term consequences.
Orthopedic Knee Injury Treatment
These and other common summertime knee injuries can dampen fun and activities, but many of these injuries can be prevented with proper precautions and awareness. By caring for your knees and listening to your body, you can help prevent injuries and enjoy a safe summer of physical activity.
Contact the Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians location near you if you sustain a summertime knee injury.
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