Tacoma General Hospital

Knee Problems and Injuries

The knee is the largest joint in the body, and it is not unusual to have a minor knee problem at one time or another. Knee pain can occur from a sudden injury or accident or from overuse from a repetitive motion. Knee problems can also be caused by getting older or having a disease such as osteoarthritis.

Acute Injuries
Acute injuries are the most common cause of knee problems. These types of injuries are often caused by a direct blow to the knee, abnormal twisting or bending or falling on the knee.

Acute injuries include sprains, ligament tears, fractures and dislocations.

Overuse Injuries
Overuse injuries of the knee occur with repetitive motion or prolonged pressure on the knee. Overuse injuries are often caused by activities such as stair climbing, bicycle riding and jogging. These repetitive activities stress the joints and tissues of the knee and lead to tendonitis, fluid buildup in the knee, general knee pain.

Osteoarthritis
This degenerative joint disease causes the cartilage between the knee joint to break down and wear away over time. Without that cartilage, the bones rub together, causing pain, stiffness and muscle weakness.

Meniscus Tears
A meniscus tear is a common knee injury in which cartilage pads that cushions the knee joint tear. A tear in this important tissue can cause symptoms ranging from minor to significant pain and even a locked knee in the case of a large tear.


ACL Injuries
Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament or ACL are caused when the knee becomes hyperextended, twisted or bent side to side. In sports, this type of injury is often caused when a sudden force is applied to the knee while the leg is straight. An ACL injury is common in football, soccer, basketball and skiing. ACL injuries can also be caused by a fall or misted step.