KNEE INJURY

Knee injury with local swelling: immediately bandage as in the image, with knee slightly bent.

FORCEFUL INJURY: If the injury has happened with force e.g jumping down, forceful twisting, presume a ligament or tendon tear or rupture has occurred. If this is the case OR the patella (knee cap) has been dislocated, wear a Richard Splint (rigid straight knee) over the compression bandage, as in the image. See a doctor as soon as you can for a diagnosis and further advice. When the doctor recommends you can book a physiotherapy consultation as below.

Use RICE guidelines for 2-3 days in all cases of injury.

For moderate and severe pain, reduce mobility to necessary activities such as toilet, shower, meals.

If unable to bear weight on the leg, use crutches or a walking frame to support moving about. SEE GAIT ASSESSMENT Mimic the pattern of normal walking by placing the foot without weight. Increase the weight as able, until fully weight bearing through a flat foot.

When weightbearing and swelling is about 90% resolved, use tape support.

After 3 days, review Knee Assessment as by link below