Preventing Knee Injuries During High-Impact Sports

High-impact sports like basketball, running, and soccer are great ways to stay fit and challenge yourself, but they can also take a toll on your knees. Knee injuries are some of the most common problems athletes face, from ligament tears to joint pain. The good news is that advances in sports medicine can help protect your knees and reduce your risk of injury while you still get to enjoy your favorite sports.

At Advanced Orthopaedic Associates, P.A., our team consists of fellowship-trained and board-certified sports medicine physicians and orthopaedic surgeons. They specialize in helping athletes prevent and recover from knee injuries and can provide the treatments you need to stay strong and healthy in Witchita, Wellington, and Winfield, Kansas.

Common Knee Injuries in High-Impact Sports

Knee injuries can range from mild to severe, and many are caused by the quick movements and pressure that high-impact sports put on your joints. Some of the most common knee injuries include:

• ACL tears: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) can tear from sudden stops, pivots, or jumps, often seen in sports like basketball or soccer.
• Meniscus tears: This cartilage can tear from twisting the knee while your foot is planted, causing pain and swelling.
• Patellar tendonitis: Also known as jumper’s knee, this injury happens from overuse and affects the tendon that connects your kneecap to your shinbone.

While these injuries can be painful, protecting your knees can keep you on the field or court longer.

How to Prevent Knee Injuries

Here are some tips to help you prevent knee injuries while enjoying high-impact sports:

• Warm up and stretch: Preparing your muscles and joints before activity increases flexibility and reduces strain on your knees.
• Strengthen your legs: Doing exercises that focus on your hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves will help support and stabilize your knees.
• Use proper footwear: Wearing shoes that offer good support can absorb impact and protect your joints.
• Practice proper form: Whether you’re jumping, pivoting, or running, using the correct technique reduces unnecessary pressure on your knees.
• Don’t push through pain: Listen to your body and rest if you feel discomfort in your knees. Pushing through can lead to more serious injuries.

Schedule an Appointment

If you’ve experienced a knee injury or want to learn more about preventing one, the experts at Advanced Orthopaedic Associates, P.A. are ready to help. Call us today at 316-631-1600 to schedule an appointment.