Hyperextending your knee is a motion that can put you out of work for some time. Hyperextension of your knee essentially means you have forced your knee to bend backwards exceeding its normal position. Knee injuries with hyperextension can be caused by sports activity, falling, or hitting your knee directly.
Hyperextending your knee likely means you have caused damage to your cartilage and ligaments in your knee. This can be especially painful and serious if your knee is straight at the time of the force causing the damage. The ligaments or tendons can even detach from the bones if the force is strong enough.
As soon as a knee injury occurs, it is important to apply ice to the affected area and do not place weight on the knee. Ignoring the problem will cause further complications. The ice will help bring down swelling that can further damage the ligaments. Shooting pain in the leg may be present. Ice can also help ease the immediate pain while you head to the doctor’s office for further treatment.
Even minor hyperextension of the knee can result in bruises, swelling, and pain when moving your knee. You may not be able to move your knee and will need to see a medical provider for a prompt diagnosis. Rest will likely be ordered by the doctor and you may need pain medication and anti-inflammatory medications to control pain and swelling. If ligaments are torn during the hyperextension, surgery may be required to repair the damage. After surgery, it is essential you get the time to rest and heal or additional injury can occur to your knee that can be debilitating.
For more information on knee pain and injuries , read our FREE report – The Disability Guys’ Guide To Your Knees.
