By The Bone & Joint Centre
The knee is one of the most important joints in the human body and also one of the most vulnerable to injury. Whether you’re a professional athlete or simply enjoy an active lifestyle, knee problems can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life.
At The Bone & Joint Centre, we specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of knee injuries, including ACL tears, meniscus injuries, and arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery. In this guide, we explore how the common knee injuries we see occur, their symptoms, and the most effective treatment options available.
Treat
1. ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Tear
The ACL is a major stabilizing ligament in the knee. It’s often injured during sports that involve sudden stops, twisting motions, or changes in direction. A torn ACL can lead to instability, pain, and long-term joint problems if not properly treated.
Key symptoms of an ACL tear:
- A sudden “popping” sound at the time of injury
- Rapid swelling
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Knee instability or “giving way” sensation
2. Meniscus Tear
The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the thigh bone and shin bone. Meniscus tears often result from activities that involve pivoting or squatting, and they can occur alongside ligament injuries like an ACL tear.
Common signs of a meniscus tear:
- Knee pain during movement
- Swelling and stiffness
- Locking or catching of the knee joint
- Limited range of motion
Diagnosing Knee Injuries
Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. At Bone & Joint Centre, we use:
- Clinical examinations to assess mobility and pain
- MRI scans to visualize soft tissue injuries
- X-rays to rule out bone fractures
Treatment Options for Knee Injuries
Non-Surgical Management
Mild or moderate knee injuries may improve with:
- Rest and Ice to reduce inflammation
- Bracing or compression for support
- Physiotherapy to regain strength and flexibility
- Anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain
Keyhole Surgery (Arthroscopy)
For more severe injuries such as complete ACL ruptures or complex meniscus tears, we may recommend arthroscopic knee surgery. This is a minimally invasive technique often referred to as keyhole surgery.
Benefits of keyhole surgery:
- Smaller incisions and reduced scarring
- Less post-operative pain
- Quicker recovery time
- Lower risk of complications
- Outpatient procedure in most cases
During the procedure, our orthopaedic surgeons use a small camera and specialized instruments to repair or reconstruct damaged tissue, including ligament grafting or meniscus trimming/repair.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Successful recovery depends on a well-structured rehabilitation plan. At Bone & Joint Centre, we guide patients through a personalized physiotherapy program aimed at:
- Restoring full knee function
- Rebuilding muscle strength
- Preventing re-injury
- Supporting a safe return to normal activity or sport
Recovery timelines vary, but many patients return to daily activities within weeks and resume sports within 4–6 months, depending on the procedure and individual healing.
Tips to Prevent Knee Injuries
While not all knee injuries are avoidable, you can reduce your risk by:
- Maintaining strong leg muscles
- Wearing proper footwear
- Warming up before exercise and cooling down afterward
- Using proper technique during sports and workouts
- Listening to your body and avoiding overuse
When to See a Knee Specialist
If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain, swelling, locking, or instability, it’s time to see an orthopaedic specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing further damage and speeding up recovery.
Book Your Knee Consultation at The Bone & Joint Centre
Don’t let a knee injury keep you off your feet. At The Bone & Joint Centre, our experienced orthopaedic team offers advanced care from diagnosis and non-surgical treatments to keyhole surgery and complete rehabilitation..
Call us today at 1876-383-4716
Visit us at: 94 1/2 Old Hope Rd, Kingston, Jamaica
Book your consultation online at: https://boneandjointja.com
The Bone & Joint Centre — Helping You To Get Active Again.