Dr. Carlo Lazzaro
For weekend warriors, knee injuries commonly occur during sports or exercise. Sometimes the result of an accident, knee injuries also occur from using improper equipment, lack of conditioning or insufficient warm-up and stretching.
The most common imaging tests that allow your doctor to see inside your knee joint to diagnose knee problems are:
X-ray (radiography)
A standard X-ray is a procedure in which an X-ray beam (a form of electromagnetic radiation) is passed through the knee to create a two-dimensional picture of the bones that form the joint. Your doctor can use X-rays to view joint alignment, joint space, bone spurs and/or fractures.
Computed Tomography (CT) scan
A computed tomography scan is a noninvasive test that combines X-ray equipment with sophisticated technology to produce multiple images of the knee. The CT scanner can combine the individual images to create a three-dimensional view of the knee. CT scans provide exquisite bone detail, better than traditional radiographs, which aid in the diagnosis of complex fractures and bone lesions
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Incorporating an advanced technology, MRI produces images of the anatomy without the use of radiation, as used in x-ray and CT scanning. MRI images are formed by computer processing signals that are emitted by body tissue. These signals are generated using a safe magnetic field in combination with radio waves of a specific frequency, similar to what is used in home and car radios.
An MRI scan can accurately determine whether an athlete with knee trauma has injured the menisci, ligaments and/or bone. In many cases, an MRI will prevent the need for arthroscopic surgery. It will also provide an orthopedic surgeon with the information needed to recommend appropriate therapy.
The following tips can help you avoid knee injuries:
• Stretch and warm up before exercise. Cool down afterwards.
• If you experience knee pain when exercising, stop and cool down.
• Wear properly-fitting shoes.
• Avoid running on hard surfaces, like asphalt and concrete, when possible.
• Avoid twisting your knees.
• Wear protective sports equipment.
• Stop exercising if you injure your knee, and seek treatment.
