Understanding Knee Injuries: Prevention, Diagnosis & Treatment

The knee is one of the most frequently injured joints in both athletes and active adults. From ligament tears to cartilage damage, knee issues can significantly limit mobility and performance. Dr. Richard M. Linn, fellowship-trained Orthopaedic Surgeon at OCSF, specializes in arthroscopic and reconstructive knee surgery, providing expert care for everything from minor sprains to complex injuries.

Why Knee Injuries Are So Common

The knee absorbs tremendous force during movement—running, jumping, pivoting, and even daily activities. This makes it especially vulnerable to injury.

Common causes include:

• Sudden twisting motions

• Direct impact or falls

• Overuse from repetitive training

• Muscle imbalances or poor biomechanics

• Weakness in surrounding hip or core muscles

  
  

Understanding these factors helps reduce injury risk.

Most Common Knee Injuries

Dr. Linn frequently diagnoses and treats:

• ACL Tears

A common injury in sports involving sudden stops, pivots, or jumps.

• Meniscus Tears

Damage to the cartilage “cushion” inside the knee, often from twisting motions.

• MCL/LCL Sprains

Injuries to the ligaments on the inside or outside of the knee.

• Patellar Tendonitis ("Jumper’s Knee")

Overuse injury common in runners and athletes performing explosive movements.

• Cartilage Damage

Can cause swelling, stiffness, and locking sensations.

• Degenerative Knee Pain

Wear-and-tear arthritis from aging or repetitive stress.

Symptoms to Watch For

Seek evaluation if you notice:

• Pain or tenderness around the knee

• Swelling or stiffness

• A popping sensation at the time of injury

• Locking, catching, or instability

• Difficulty bearing weight

• Limited range of motion

  
  

Early diagnosis often leads to better outcomes.

Diagnosis & Treatment Options

Dr. Linn uses a combination of physical exams and advanced imaging—such as X-rays and MRI—to determine the precise cause of knee pain.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Many knee injuries can be treated with conservative care, including:

• Physical therapy to restore strength and function

• Activity modification or temporary rest

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Bracing or taping for stability

• Injections for inflammation or pain control

  
  

Arthroscopic & Reconstructive Surgery

For more severe injuries—like ACL tears or complex meniscus damage—Dr. Linn performs minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery to:

• Repair or reconstruct torn ligaments

• Treat cartilage damage

• Remove or repair meniscal tears

• Restore stability and mobility

  
  

Arthroscopy allows for smaller incisions, faster recovery, and improved outcomes.

Rehabilitation & Long-Term Recovery

Successful knee recovery involves:

• Strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and core

• Restoring balance and coordination

• Improving flexibility and joint mobility

• Gradual return-to-sport programs

• Injury-prevention education

  
  

OCSF’s rehabilitation team works closely with Dr. Linn to ensure a safe and effective recovery plan tailored to each patient’s goals.

How to Prevent Knee Injuries

Dr. Linn recommends the following strategies:

• Warm up properly before exercise

• Strengthen hip and core muscles

• Maintain flexibility in the legs

• Use proper landing and cutting techniques

• Increase training intensity gradually

• Wear proper footwear for your sport

  
  

Small adjustments can significantly reduce your risk of knee injury.

Schedule Your Appointment, If knee pain, instability, or injury is affecting your lifestyle or performance, expert care is available. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Richard M. Linn at OCSF today for advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment, and comprehensive knee care.