Common knee conditions
Knee pain is a common complaint that can affect people of all ages and is usually the result of injury or disease. Symptoms of knee complaints usually include pain, swelling, tenderness, loss of movement, stiffness and unusual clicking or popping sounds.
The knee joint is a complex structure that is important for many daily functions including sitting, walking, kneeling and squatting. It is made up of bones, cartilage, ligaments and tendons and can be vulnerable to a range of structural injuries including fracture, dislocation and soft tissue tear.
Medical conditions such as arthritis or infection can also cause cartilage to degenerate more quickly resulting in discomfort, pain or swelling. Common knee conditions include torn ligaments and meniscus, arthritis, bursitis, fractures and tendonitis. Knee complaints can usually be successfully diagnosed and treated through examination and specialist consultation, with surgery considered as a last resort.
Meniscus tearsA meniscus tear is a common knee injury that causes pain, stiffness and swelling. It may require surgical treatment to repair torn or damaged cartilage.
ACL tears are usually caused by a sudden pivoting action. A common sporting occurrence, they can range in severity and often require surgery to restore full mobility.
MCL tears affect the outside of the knee joint and are common in contact sports such as soccer and rugby. Surgery is only required in severe cases.
Microfracture surgery is an innovative technique that harnesses the natural healing abilities of the human body to repair cartilage damage in the knee joint.
Dislocation occurs when the thighbone becomes disconnected from the shin bone and can be extremely painful. Often the result of a traumatic accident, it requires immediate medical attention.
Find a hospital with orthopaedic services
Our Hospitals
