“How can you tell the difference between a strain and torn knee ligaments?”
I felt a weird pop in my knee when I was running playing a softball game. It's pretty sore but I don't have a lot of trouble walking. Is it just a strain or could I have torn something and not know it?
3 Answers
OrthopaedicSurgeonStrains
If you have swelling in your knee then it is possible you may have torn either a ligament or meniscus / cartilage in your knee. It would be worth getting it checked!
There is usually more Pain, Swelling, and Instability with a complete Tear. The fact that you have no trouble walking is a good sign. But, you should be evaluated again if you have concerns-Possible MRI also would be helpful.
Ligaments and tendons of the knee are composed of fibers similar to strands of a rope. A year and strain are different degrees of same injury. If fibers are stretched that is a mild tear or strain. Some fiber fully torn and some stretched equals a moderate tear and complete tears of all fibers equals a severe tear. By clinical exam and if necessary an MRI the degree of injury can be confirmed.
