Suffering a knee injury in an accident can mean not only having to deal with severe pain but also needing medical care and even physical therapy to get back to normal. In some instances, the injury may never fully heal, leaving you with lasting mobility issues.
Knee injuries can occur from any type of trauma, such as being involved in a motorcycle accident or getting hit by heavy machinery at work. Understanding the most common types of knee injuries and how you can pursue compensation is vital.
Most Common Types Of Knee Injuries
There are a variety of knee injuries you can sustain, but there are some that occur more frequently than others.
Meniscus Tears
A torn meniscus occurs when the cartilage that functions as a shock absorber between your shinbone and thighbone tears. It’s often the result of twisting your knee. It can result in pain, swelling, stiffness, and the sensation that your knee locks.
Patellar Tendinitis
Also called jumper’s knee, patellar tendinitis is typically an overuse injury that occurs if you place repeated stress on the knee tendon. It’s common in athletes. You can experience tenderness, swelling, and pain below the kneecap. The symptoms can get worse when jumping, running, or climbing stairs.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears occur during rapid changes in direction, including pivoting or landing suddenly. Although they tend to occur in sports, they can also happen as a result of a slip and fall accident if your knee twists. You may hear a loud pop when the injury occurs and then experience serious swelling and pain.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS),
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), also called runner’s knee, is an injury that occurs from overuse. It leads to pain under the patella, or kneecap, because of repeated stress on the area. You may experience a clicking or grinding sensation in the knee, accompanied by pain and stiffness.
Fractures
Knee fractures are also common injuries, especially in car accidents and falls. The kneecap is particularly vulnerable and can take a long time to heal. The swelling could be significant, and it’s common for a fracture of this type to require surgery.
Why Knee Injuries Are So Common After Accidents
The knee is a weight-bearing joint that relies on several ligaments, tendons, and cartilage structures working together. In accidents, the knee can be injured by a direct impact (like hitting the dashboard), a sudden twist during a fall, or an awkward landing while trying to brace yourself.
Even when there’s no visible damage right away, internal injuries can still cause swelling, instability, and reduced range of motion over the next several hours or days.
Treatment And Recovery Timeline
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury. Some knee injuries respond well to rest, bracing, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy, while others require injections or surgery—especially when there is structural damage or instability.
Recovery can take weeks or months, and more severe injuries may lead to long-term limitations, recurring pain, or a higher risk of arthritis later on.
What To Do After An Accident Causing A Knee Injury
Taking the right steps early can protect both your health and your legal rights. Get medical attention promptly and follow your doctor’s recommendations, including physical therapy if prescribed.
Document symptoms as they develop, keep copies of medical records and bills, and report the incident to the appropriate party (property owner, employer, or law enforcement). Avoid giving detailed recorded statements to an insurance company until you understand your options.
Contact The King Firm Car Accident And Personal Injury Lawyers To Schedule A Free Consultation With A Tifton Personal Injury Lawyer
You should not have to go through the aftermath of an accident worrying about how you’ll handle medical expenses and all of your other losses. With a Tifton personal injury attorney by your side, you can fight for economic and non-economic damages.
At The King Firm Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, our team of attorneys provides the comprehensive legal support you need during this difficult time in your life. With tenacity and extensive experience, we deliver the high-quality support you need. Don’t wait to begin your claim. Contact us today, or call us at (229) 386-1376, to schedule a free consultation.
