SPORTS INJURIES
Sports Knee Injuries
Knee injuries are a common hurdle for active lifestyles and usually occur during sport from high-velocity movements such as pivoting, sudden deceleration or direct impact. Acute sports injuries require accurate diagnosis and specialist intervention to repair stability and help prevent secondary joint damage. Dr David Kitchen provides clinical assessment for sports injuries at the sportsmed Stepney & Henley Beach Healthcare Hubs, providing tailored treatment and management strategies.
What is a Sports Knee Injury?
A sports-related knee injury occurs when the structural components of the joint are pushed past their biological limits. This usually involves damage to the ligaments that hold the bones together or the cartilage that cushions the impact of movement.
Collateral ligament tears (MCL/LCL)
These ligaments on the inner and outer side of the knee provide sideways stability.
Patellar instability
This occurs when the kneecap is forced out of its groove, damaging the stabilising ligaments (MPFL) and bone.
Tendon ruptures
Damage to the patellar or quadriceps tendons which are essential for straightening the leg and weight-bearing.
Fractures
High-impact collisions can result in tibial plateau or patellar fractures that disrupt the joint surface.
When is Surgery Recommended for Sports Knee Injuries?
Minor sprains resolve with rehabilitation, but a clinical review or surgery with Dr David Kitchen may be recommended when these are present:
Functional instability
The knee feels shaky or gives way during walking or pivoting.
High-grade ruptures
A Grade 3 ligament tear that involves loss of structural integrity and requires stabilisation.
The “terrible triad”
Multi-ligament injuries involving the ACL, MCL and Meniscus require a comprehensive and coordinated plan to prevent joint failure.
Recurrent Dislocations
If the kneecap continues to displace, surgical stabilisation is required to protect the underlying cartilage.
A detailed clinical assessment at our sportsmed clinics, supported by imaging, is necessary before making a treatment decision. Dr David Kitchen will discuss all surgical and non-surgical options with you.
Treatment Options
Dr David Kitchen will discuss all surgical and non-surgical options with you. Here is a short outline:
Non-Surgical
Functional bracing and targeted physiotherapy that assists ligaments to knit and build strength.
Surgical Repair
Uses sutures or anchors to reattach torn ligaments or tendons to the bone.
Reconstruction
Replaces a completely ruptured ligament (like the ACL) with a graft to restore mechanical stability.
Stabilisation
Addresses recurrent kneecap dislocations by repairing or reconstructing the MPFL.
Functional Recovery & Bracing
Clinical management with Dr David Kitchen focuses on movement. For many ligament injuries, particularly the MCL, he prefers to use functional bracing rather than restrictive casting.
Controlled Movement
Bracing protects the injured ligament from sideways stress while allowing the knee to bend and straighten.
Muscle Preservation
Allowing movement prevents the rapid muscle wasting (atrophy) that occurs with traditional casts.
Biological Healing
Moving the joint encourages blood flow and helps the new ligament tissue orient correctly for better long-term strength.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timeline depends on the level of injury, but a guided timeline is provided below.
Day
1 - 14
Acute Triage
RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and protected weight-bearing.
Week
2 - 8
Functional Bracing
Transition to a hinged brace to allow range of motion while the tissue heals.
Month
2 - 4
Reconditioning
Intensive strengthening at our Stepney clinic to restore quadriceps and gluteal support.
Month
6 - 9+
Return to Sport
Dr David Kitchen uses benchmark-based testing to determine readiness for a return to sport, especially contact sports.
Risks & Complications
While arthroscopic knee surgery is common, it is important to understand the potential risks:
Frequently Asked Questions
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Focused care for your active lifestyle.
Consulting at sportsmed Stepney & Henley Beach · A GP referral is required.