Knee Fracture Care

Understanding Knee Conditions and Available Treatments

Knee Fracture Care in Hoover and Birmingham, Serving Central Alabama

Knee fractures are more than just painful. They can be life-altering injuries, which is why they demand expert care from qualified knee specialists. Whether caused by a high-impact blow during a sporting event or a simple misstep while performing daily activities, fractures around the knee joint can affect mobility and quality of life.

Dedicated to helping patients achieve less pain, more living, Southlake Orthopaedics offers comprehensive care at locations in Hoover and Birmingham-Grandview, AL, for patients who are experiencing knee fracture symptoms. Our expertise includes complete orthopedic care, which involves everything from diagnosis and treatment to rehabilitation. Learn more about this injury and the steps taken on the road to recovery.

What Is a Knee Fracture?

A knee fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that form the knee joint, with the patella (kneecap) being the most common. It can also involve the ends of the femur (thighbone) or tibia (shinbone). Fractures can vary significantly in severity, ranging from tiny cracks known as hairline fractures to complex breaks that involve multiple bone fragments and impact joint functionality. In severe cases, breaks can lead to bone piercing through the skin, creating an open wound. Knee fracture is used as a general term and can refer to one or more of the following injuries:

Patellar fracture: This injury involves the patella, the small, round bone that sits at the front of the knee and helps protect the joint. It can be non-displaced or displaced, which is when a broken bone is out of alignment, creating a gap between the fractured ends.
Distal femur fracture: More commonly seen in older adults with osteoporosis, this type of fracture affects the lower end of the thighbone, just above the knee.
Proximal tibia fracture: Occurring in the upper portion of the shinbone, this fracture can involve the joint surface, affecting the knee’s stability and alignment. This type of fracture commonly results in damage to the surrounding ligaments and cartilage.

Knee fractures can occur in a variety of ways and are most commonly a result of the following:

High-impact trauma, such as car accidents or major falls
Sports injuries, particularly when participating in contact sports or physical activities that require sudden changes in direction
Osteoporosis, which weakens bones and makes them more susceptible to fractures
Repetitive stress, most seen in athletes or individuals who lead an active lifestyle

Knee Fracture Symptoms

Patients who sustain knee fractures commonly experience the following symptoms:

Severe pain in or around the knee, especially when trying to move it or put weight on it
Swelling and bruising
Difficulty walking or performing common movements involving the knee joint
Inability to straighten or bend the knee fully
Visible deformity or what appears to be a bone out of place
Tenderness to the touch
Grinding or popping sensations

Symptoms of a knee fracture typically appear immediately after an injury and may worsen over time without medical intervention. Patients who believe they are dealing with a knee fracture should seek care from a knee specialist, like the board-certified physicians at Southlake Orthopaedics.

Diagnosing Knee Fractures

The diagnosis of a knee fracture involves a thorough clinical evaluation performed by one of our knee specialists, combined with appropriate imaging studies. Initially, a doctor will conduct a physical exam to assess for indicators such as:

Swelling
Bruising
Tenderness
Deformity
Limitations in range of motion or weight-bearing capacity

To confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the injury, X-rays are typically used. For more complex fractures, or when soft tissue, cartilage, or ligament damage is suspected, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan may be ordered. This imaging tool provides a detailed view of the injury, helping guide treatment options.

Knee Fracture Treatment Options

At Southlake Orthopaedics, we approach knee fracture treatment on a patient-to-patient basis, meaning care is not one-size-fits-all. We consider each individual’s condition and recovery goals to craft a personalized treatment plan.

The most appropriate treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury. Non-surgical options may include rest and immobilization with a brace or cast to prevent movement while the break heals. Physical therapy may be prescribed to improve the range of motion, strengthen muscles, and reduce stiffness. In complex cases, our doctors might recommend surgical intervention, which can include a variety of techniques to realign and repair the broken bones. In these instances, rehabilitation is essential to restore strength, flexibility, and function in the knee.

Meet the Team at Southlake Orthopaedics

Knee fractures at Southlake Orthopaedics are cared for by our team of highly experienced, board-certified physicians. Our multi-specialty physicians possess the knowledge and skills necessary to provide comprehensive care through the patient journey, from diagnosis and treatment to recovery. Our doctors include:

Richard L. “Beau” Grantier, M.D

Michael T. Ellerbusch, M.D.

Michael F. Blum, M.D.

George Robert Booker, M.D.

Dewey H. Jones, M.D.

Jonathan Isbell, M.D.

Seek In-Depth Care from Board-Certified Knee Specialists in Alabama

Don’t let a knee injury keep you from experiencing life and doing the activities you love most. Serving individuals throughout central Alabama, Southlake Orthopaedics is committed to providing complete care for a range of injuries, including knee fractures. To learn more about our services available at our locations in Hoover and Birmingham-Grandview, AL, contact us to schedule an appointment.

Knee Fracture Care

Understanding Knee Conditions and Available Treatments