title: Problems With Large Joints: Knee Conditions.
abstract: As a large joint dependent on ligaments for stability and muscles and tendons for function, the knee is susceptible to a spectrum of acute and overuse injuries. Acute injuries involve the ligaments, menisci, and weight-bearing surfaces. Overuse injuries commonly affect the patellar tendon, iliotibial band, and patellofemoral complex. Acute and overuse knee injuries can be debilitating but most can be diagnosed and managed by family physicians. An appropriate history and physical examination are essential to guide diagnosis and management decisions. X-ray imaging often is required. Magnetic resonance imaging study, computed tomography scan, or ultrasonography also may be indicated to guide diagnosis and management. Knee injuries often improve with bracing, activity modification, weight loss, and physical therapy. Referral to an orthopedic subspecialist can be considered when these measures are not effective.
authors.affiliation: University of Kansas School of Medicine Family and Community Medicine, 1010 N. Kansas, Wichita, KS 672147, andrew.porter@viachristi.org.
authors.forename: Andrew St
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: Porter
mesh_terms: D000070598:Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001915:Braces; D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000628:therapy; D019468:Disease Management; D006801:Humans; D058745:Iliotibial Band Syndrome / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D007718:Knee Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000628:therapy; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D017888:Medial Collateral Ligament, Knee / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries; D008487:Medical History Taking; D009985:Orthopedics; D017847:Patellar Ligament / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D046788:Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D010808:Physical Examination; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D016119:Posterior Cruciate Ligament / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries; D011859:Radiography; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D052256:Tendinopathy / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D000070600:Tibial Meniscus Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014463:Ultrasonography; D015431:Weight Loss
chemical_list: D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal