Common Causes of Patella Injuries
Because of the knee’s central role in mobility, an injury to the knee can be devastating. Essential in the function of the knee is the kneecap, or patella. Whether one is active or not, the patella is susceptible to injury. If you suffer from an injury to the patella, don’t hesitate to see a certified orthopedic surgeon. He or she can assess the severity of the injury, as well as discuss treatment options with you. Here are some common causes of injury to the kneecap:
Direct Impact to the Knee
Athletes who participate in contact sports, such as football or soccer, are at an increased risk for injuries to the patella. When the kneecap experiences an acute and traumatic impact, it can fracture or become dislocated. Of course, this injury can also occur in any number of scenarios, such as car accidents, falls, or an object being dropped on the knee. An orthopedic surgeon will assess the damage, determining if in fact the bone was fractured. With a fracture, the knee is set and left to heal. If the kneecap is broken, the injury will often require surgery.
Eccentric Contraction
Although most people associate contractions with the shortening of the muscles, in fact, everyday activities require one’s muscles to be active when they are lengthening, as well. An eccentric contraction is just that—a type of contraction that occurs when the muscles are lengthening. Injury can occur when the opposing force is too much for the contracting muscle to withstand. So, in the knee, when the quadriceps is lengthened and the knee joint straightens and too much force is applied, a fracture can occur.
If you are looking for an orthopedic surgeon in New York, contact the offices of Drew Stein, M.D. We specialize in orthopedic and arthroscopic surgery, and we can design a custom treatment plan to address your specific injury. Call us at (212) 398-2300 to schedule an appointment.
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