Receive Treatment for Your Knee Fracture in Louisville, KY

A knee fracture is an injury that affects one or more of the bones that come together in the knee joint, which include the thighbone (femur), the lower leg bones (tibia and fibula), and the kneecap (patella). A fracture can range in severity from a tiny hairline crack to a complete break into two or more pieces.

If you’ve injured your knee in a fall, car accident, or sporting mishap, you are welcome to consult with a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic in Louisville, Kentucky.

What Are the Symptoms of a Knee Fracture?

Depending on the bone affected and the extent of the damage, a knee fracture can produce a variety of symptoms, including:

• Pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness
• A grinding sensation during movement
• Difficulty bending the knee
• Leg muscle spasms
• A visible change in the shape of the leg

After reviewing your medical history, discussing your symptoms, and performing a clinical examination, your knee specialist at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic may request an X-ray, which can be performed on site, or order another type of imaging scan to further evaluate your injury. Once the assessment is complete and your diagnosis is confirmed, your physician will suggest an appropriate treatment plan.

How Is a Knee Fracture Treated?

Treatment for a knee fracture can vary. For instance, if the fracture is relatively simple, a splint or cast can be worn to stabilize and protect the bone until it heals. Additionally:

• If the broken ends of a bone have separated and shifted slightly out of alignment (a displaced knee fracture), a surgeon may perform a closed reduction procedure to move the bone back into its proper position.
• If the bone has broken into several pieces or is completely shattered (a comminuted knee fracture), a surgeon may restore the bone to its proper position and possibly secure it in place with hardware.
• If a bone fragment has pierced the skin (an open knee fracture), a physician may suture the wound to control the bleeding or prescribe an antibiotic to prevent infection.

With prompt and appropriate treatment, a knee fracture may heal within six to eight weeks. During the recovery process, physical therapy can help restore knee strength and flexibility.

If you would like to discuss your knee fracture with a specialist at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our sports medicine center in Louisville, KY.