Hyperextended knee: How is it treated?

My daughter, who is a gymnast, recently hyperextended her knee. What is the treatment for this type of injury? How long does it take to heal?

- Janet / Pennsylvania

Answer

Hyperextended knee refers to an injury in which the knee is forced beyond its normal fully straightened position. This position forces the lower leg excessively forward in relation to the upper leg. A hyperextended knee often occurs as a result of an awkward landing after a jump or from a contact injury to the lower leg. It is a common injury in jumping or leaping sports, such as gymnastics, basketball, volleyball and some types of dance.

Treatment of hyperextended knee depends on the severity of the injury. Sometimes the damage is relatively minor, with pain and swelling when you try to extend your knee. But a hyperextended knee may also lead to a partial or complete ligament tear, especially in your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). An injury severe enough to cause knee joint swelling, instability, impaired motion or pain should be evaluated by a doctor.

A doctor can evaluate the injury by:

• Medical history
• Physical examination of the knee
• X-rays of the knee
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans

Treatment may include:

• Applying ice to the knee immediately after the injury
• Rest
• Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory medications
• Wearing a knee brace or wrapping an elastic bandage around the knee
• Physical therapy
• Surgery

Avoiding sports and other activities that could further injure the knee is vital as the knee heals. In most cases, resting the leg for two to four weeks is recommended depending on the extent of the injury.

If surgery is required for a ligament tear, however, it may be six to nine months after surgery before the injured person can return to sports. If a child has a ligament tear that requires surgery, doctors often recommend postponing surgery until the child's bones have stopped growing.

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