Category Archives: Conditions

Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter Disease Overview This overuse injury is an inflammation that occurs at the point where the patellar tendon attaches to the tibia. It most commonly affects adolescents. One or both knees may be affected. Causes Doctors are not sure exactly what causes this injury, but it typically occurs during periods of growth spurts and affects […]

Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Osteoarthritis of the Knee Overview Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative arthritis, is a gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joints. Cartilage is a tough, flexible connective tissue that protects the ends of bones in the joints. Osteoarthritis is common in the knees because the knees bear the weight of the body. Osteoarthritis of the knee can […]

Patella Fracture (Broken Knee Cap)

Patella Fracture (Broken Knee Cap) The patella is the small bone that sits at the front of your knee that connects the muscles in the front of your thigh to your tibia. It also acts as a shield for your knee joint, which makes it vulnerable to fractures, especially if you fall directly on your […]

Patella Tendon Rupture

Patella Tendon Rupture Overview This condition occurs when the tendon that holds the patella, (the knee cap), to the tibia tears and splits apart, allowing the patella to slide upward. This causes pain and an inability to straighten the knee. Causes A patella tendon rupture is usually caused by direct trauma to the front of […]

Patellar Tracking Disorder

Patellar Tracking Disorder Patellar Tracking Disorder The knee is a joint with a complex hinge joining the two bones in the lower leg with the thigh bone. The patella (kneecap) sits in a grove at the end of the thigh bone. It is then held in place on the top and bottom by tendons and […]

Quadriceps Tendon Tear

Quadriceps Tendon Tear Tendons are the strong cords of tissue that attach your muscles to your bones. Your quadriceps tendon works with the muscles in the front of your thigh to straighten your leg. A small tear can make it difficult to walk and participate in daily activities while a large tear is completely disabling. […]

Septic Arthritis of the Knee

Septic Arthritis of the Knee Overview This condition occurs when harmful bacteria infect the knee joint, causing pain and swelling, and damaging the healthy tissues in the joint. Any joint in the body can become infected, but the knee is the most common. Causes Septic arthritis can be caused by an infection anywhere in the […]

Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)

Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome) Overview This is pain you feel in the front of one or both of your lower legs. It can be a problem for runners, dancers, gymnasts and other active people. Causes Shin splints is an overuse problem. It can develop when you increase your activity level or change your […]

Supracondylar Femoral Fracture

Supracondylar Femoral Fracture Overview This condition is a break in the femur at the knee joint. The fracture can range from a small crack to a full break that allows part of the bone to separate. This injury can involve the cartilage on the base of the femur in the knee joint, and may increase […]