Ligaments and sprains
Knee sprain
What is a sprain?
A sprain is a lesion on one or more ligaments without displacement of the joint (dislocation).
The lesion can vary between a simple elongation (mild sprain) to a total rupture (severe sprain), via tears in a few of the bundles (sprain of medium severity).
The ligaments link one bone to another to form a joint. They are composed of several bundles and are not very extensible.
When there is trauma (shock or a false movement), the joint can find itself in a position that goes beyond its natural amplitude, resulting in a painful lesion.
A mild sprain is also known as a "strain".
What is a knee sprain?
A knee sprain is a lesion to one or more of the ligaments in the knee joint: the external lateral ligament, the internal lateral ligament, the anterior cruciate ligament or the posterior cruciate ligament.
When practicing certain sports such as football or skiing, trauma can result in a movement that goes beyond the anatomical limits of the joint. For example, a fall or a shock can twist the leg whilst the foot remains immobile.
The femur thus turns while the tibia remains in place.
The ligaments are then stretched beyond their natural capacities - and this is a knee sprain.
Warning: a knee sprain can sometimes be associated with damage to the meniscii or the kneecap.
Orthopaedic treatment
Knee supports and knee splints have several therapeutic effects, ranging from decreasing the pain (analgesia) to healing the ligament(s).
The ligaments are rested and are no longer subjected to the excessive mechanical constraints caused by walking or false movements.
Unlike knee supports (which are made from elasticated fabric), knee splints are articulated and are used for the more serious sprains.
As for the knee supports, they make the joint safe, increase vigilance and improve the sensations and performances of the muscles (only if there has been trauma).
It can also be recommended that a patient wear a knee support as a preventive measure when returning to a sporting activity after trauma.
Orthopaedic management can fit into the framework of a medical treatment prescribed by your doctor. In case of doubt, ask your doctor or orthopaedist for advice.
