A “twisted knee” describes an injury from sudden twisting or impact to the knee joint. It can range from a mild stretch to a severe tear of supporting ligaments or tendons. Understanding the appropriate steps after such an incident is important for recovery.
Immediate Steps After a Twisted Knee
Immediately after twisting a knee, applying the R.I.C.E. method helps manage pain and swelling. R.I.C.E. stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
Resting the injured knee means avoiding any activity that causes pain or worsens the injury. Applying ice to the affected area helps reduce pain and inflammation. An ice pack wrapped in a towel can be applied for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours during the first 24 to 72 hours.
Compression with an elastic bandage helps limit swelling, but avoid wrapping it so tightly that it causes numbness or increased pain. Elevating the injured leg above heart level, using pillows for support, also reduces swelling by allowing fluid to drain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can manage discomfort and inflammation. Avoid putting weight on the knee if walking is painful; crutches may be recommended.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
Certain symptoms indicate the need for professional medical attention following a twisted knee. Severe pain, especially if it prevents weight-bearing, signals a need to consult a healthcare provider. Significant or rapidly increasing swelling or bruising around the knee also warrants evaluation.
A “popping” sound or sensation, particularly if followed by pain and swelling, can suggest a more serious injury like a torn ligament. If the knee feels unstable, as if it might “give out,” or if you are unable to fully straighten or bend the knee, these signs require medical assessment. Additionally, if symptoms do not improve after a day or two of applying the R.I.C.E. method, or if they worsen, seek medical advice.
Medical Assessment and Diagnosis
The assessment typically begins with a detailed discussion about how the injury occurred and your symptoms. The doctor will then perform a physical examination of the knee, checking for tenderness, swelling, range of motion, and stability. Specific tests, such as the Lachman test for an ACL injury, may be performed to assess ligament integrity.
To further evaluate the injury, diagnostic imaging may be necessary. X-rays are often used first to rule out bone fractures or other bony abnormalities. If soft tissue damage, such as ligament or meniscus tears, is suspected, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan provides detailed images of these structures. This assessment guides the diagnosis and treatment plan.
Rehabilitation and Long-Term Recovery
Once a twisted knee injury is diagnosed, a rehabilitation plan focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, and function. For many non-surgical cases, physical therapy plays a central role in recovery.
Physical therapists design exercise programs to strengthen the muscles supporting the knee, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, which helps improve stability and reduce stress on the joint. These exercises also aim to improve the knee’s range of motion and overall flexibility. Bracing may be used to provide support and protect the knee during the healing process, especially for ligament injuries.
While most twisted knees heal with non-surgical treatments, severe injuries, such as a complete ligament tear, might necessitate surgical intervention to repair damaged structures. Adhering to the prescribed rehabilitation plan and gradually increasing activity levels prevent re-injury and aid long-term recovery.