Cruciate Ligament Knee Injury

The cruciate ligaments may be injured any time the knee withstands any type of force that separates the bones. Injuries to the cruciate ligament are common in running, jumping, and contact sports. In car accidents, in which the person does not wear a seat belt, ligaments may be injured when knees are thrown into the dashboard. Someone who is out of shape physically or who has had a previous knee injury is more prone to knee injuries.

Follow these guidelines to help prevent serious knee injuries.

• keep in good physical shape because strong muscles will support your knee

• wear proper shoes when you participate in your sport

• use appropriate knee protection and equipment

• always wear seat belts

Cruciate injuries can be sprains or tears of the ligament. A mild sprain gives mild pain. Treatment is usually rest and support with an elastic bandage. Ice and anti-inflammatory medication like aspirin or ibuprofen will assist with swelling and discomfort. These medications should not be taken without approval from your healthcare provider if the person has an ulcer, kidney problems, an allergy to aspirin, or if on a blood-thinning medication. Recovery is slow, but usually complete.

Symptoms of a serious cruciate injury are:

• severe pain at the time of the injury

• feeling or hearing a pop or tear inside the knee

• immediate swelling and bruising at the knee and

• instability and giving out of the knee after injury

A severe sprain or tear of any ligament is a serious injury and may require special bracing or surgery. See your healthcare provider if you have knee pain that does not go away. It is important to see your healthcare provider for all serious injuries.

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