Knee injuries are some of the most common workplace injuries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), knee injuries account for approximately 15 percent of all occupational injuries and illnesses.
If you have sustained a knee injury at work, you may wonder what your next steps should be.
In this blog post, we will provide you with a guide on how to handle a knee injury at work. We will discuss the importance of seeking medical attention, filing a workers’ compensation claim, and returning to work safely.
What are the most common knee injuries?
The knee joint is one of the most complex joints in the human body, and because of this, it is also one of the most susceptible to injury. Various knee injuries can occur, but some are more common than others.
The most common knee injuries include:
- An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears: The ACL is one of the four major ligaments in the knee joint. It stabilizes the knee and prevents it from progressing too far forward. ACL tears are very common in athletes, particularly those who participate in contact sports. However, they can also occur in non-athletes due to a fall or direct blow to the knee.
- Patellar tendonitis: Patellar tendonitis is a condition that results in inflammation of the patellar tendon. This tendon connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). Patellar tendonitis is often caused by overuse, such as running or jumping. It can also be the result of a direct blow to the kneecap.
- A posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tears: The PCL is another one of the four major ligaments in the knee joint. It is located in the back of the knee and runs from the femur (thighbone) to the tibia (shinbone). PCL tears are less common than ACL tears, but they can still occur due to a fall or direct blow to the knee.
- Meniscus tears: The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that sits between the femur and tibia. Its primary function is to provide cushioning and stability for the knee joint. Meniscus tears are usually the result of a twisting injury to the knee. They are common in athletes but can also occur in non-athletes.
- Knee bursitis: Knee bursitis is a condition that results in inflammation of the bursae. The bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion between bones and tissues. They are located throughout the body, including around the knee joint. Knee bursitis is usually caused by overuse or repetitive motion. It can also be the result of a direct blow to the knee.
While these are the most common knee injuries, it is important to note that many other knee injuries can occur. If you have sustained any type of knee injury, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
What are the symptoms of a knee injury?
The symptoms of a knee injury will depend on the type and severity of the injury. However, there are some common signs and symptoms that you may experience if you have injured your knee, such as:
- Pain: You may feel a sharp or dull pain in your knee, depending on the severity of the injury.
- Swelling: Knee injuries often result in swelling due to the build-up of fluid in the joint.
- Bruising: You may notice bruising around the knee, particularly if you have sustained a direct blow to the area.
- Instability: You may feel like your knee is “giving out” or is not as stable as it normally is. This is often a sign of an ACL or PCL injury.
- Limited range of motion: If you have injured your knee, you may find that you cannot move it through its full range of motion.
If you have suffered a knee injury, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A knee injury can often be painful and debilitating, making it difficult to walk or even stand. If you have a knee injury, various treatment options are available, depending on the severity of the injury.
What should you do if you have a knee injury at work?
If you have sustained a knee injury at work, there are a few steps you should take:
- Report the injury to your supervisor: It is important to inform your supervisor about the injury as soon as possible.
- Seek medical attention: If you are in pain or have difficulty walking, it is important to seek medical attention.
- Follow your doctor’s orders: Your doctor will likely give you specific instructions on how to care for your injury.
- Stay home from work: Depending on the severity of your injury, you may need to stay home for some time.
- File a workers’ compensation claim: If your job caused your injury, you might be eligible for workers’ compensation.
If you have suffered a knee injury at work, it is important to seek legal assistance. The experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at San Gabriel Valley Workers Compensation Attorneys can help you navigate the workers’ compensation system and ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to. Contact us today at (626) 602-9483 to schedule a free consultation.