Knee Sprain Recovery Time

Knee Orthopedist in White Plains, NY

Unfortunately, knee sprains are a potential injury associated with being active. Knee sprains may present with various uncomfortable symptoms that may require the help of a Knee Orthopedist in White Plains, NY. Every patient is different and requires a different treatment plan depending on the severity of the knee sprain. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, we are here to take care of any knee pains you may have, especially if it is a knee sprain. We recommend you see a Knee Orthopedist in White Plains, NY, who can look at your knee and determine a treatment plan made just for you. 

Causes Of a Sprained Knee

Bones are held together by ligaments and are essential to the general functioning of bones. A sprain is when a ligament is torn or stretched beyond typical stretching. Sprains are often very painful and limit movement in the impacted area. Knee sprains are notably complex as the knee has four main ligaments, meaning multiple ligaments are working together to allow the knee to function properly. An activity that forces the knee out of its natural position causes a knee sprain. A sprain can occur at any of the four knee ligaments: ACL, PCL, LCL, and MCL. 

Sprained Knee Symptoms

Sprained knees can present with a variety of symptoms. Due to there being four ligaments in the knee, each ligament can have its symptoms or signs of injury. For example, if an individual hears a pop in the knee during an activity, that could indicate an ACL sprain. However, some signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for in the knee suggest it might be time to see a Knee Orthopedist in White Plains, NY, if you are in the Long Island area. Here are some examples of common knee sprain symptoms: 

  • Bruising
  • Buckling
  • Muscle Spasms
  • Knee Pain or pain in nearby areas
  • Popping
  • Stiffness
  • Swelling in the knee or surrounding areas
  • Tenderness
  • Weakness

Diagnosis of a Sprained Knee

It is essential to see a doctor for recurring knee pains as it could be a knee sprain. It is imperative to see a doctor if knee pain impacts one’s ability to walk or stand. It is also essential to see a doctor if swelling in the knee or surrounding areas is present. When visiting a doctor for a potential knee sprain, the doctor will make some observations or request tests. Doctors typically look for swelling or bruising on the outside of the knee. They also look at the mobility of the knee to see what impact the injury has on movement compared to the non injured knee. It is essential to share information with the doctor regarding the activity that caused the knee pain and any symptoms associated with the injury. A doctor can make a well-rounded determination of the next course of action with this information. A variety of imaging can be used or requested by a doctor to understand the injury’s extent further. It is crucial that the imaging allows the doctors to see the ligaments and tissues surrounding the knee. 

Sprained Knee Treatment: Knee Orthopedist in White Plains, NY

Doctors typically rank knee sprains on a scale based on their severity. The following numbers are associated with a different severity:

  • 1= Partially torn ligament
  • 2= Severely torn ligament
  • 3= Completely torn ligament

The severity of the injury helps the doctor understand what treatment might be best for that specific injury. Doctors may recommend treatment for knee sprain in isolation or combination. Over-the-counter pain medication can help relieve pain associated with the knee sprain injury. Rest is another excellent treatment option to allow the ligament in the knee to heal and rebuild after overuse. Doctors will likely recommend ice on the sprain to reduce swelling too.

Additionally, a brace may be necessary to promote the rest of the injured knee and promote protection. A knee orthopedist may recommend Physical therapy or surgery to rebuild strength in the injured ligament. These options can also help prevent sprains in the future. 

Sprained Knee Recovery Time

The recovery time of a knee sprain varies depending on the severity of the injury. A minor sprain (1 or 2) can heal anywhere between 2 to 4 weeks. However, a completely torn ligament (severity 3) that requires surgery can take 4 to 6 months to heal. The majority of people that suffer from a knee sprain make a full recovery. In some cases, those who had a knee sprain develop arthritis in their knee throughout their life.

Contact Our Team: Knee Orthopedist in White Plains, NY

At New York Sports Medicine Institute, we want to help you get back to your normal activities pain-free. Our Knee Orthopedist in White Plains, NY, is ready to help you get back to your life and help relieve your knee pains. If you believe you have sprained your knee or had another knee injury, don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to helping you in any way possible and getting you back to feeling 100%! 

NYSMI