When ligaments or cartilage have been significantly injured there is usually noticeable swelling. Depending on the severity of the damage the swelling may not show until the next morning. If the outside ligaments have had a hole torn in them, the knee may not be swollen at all, but the foot and ankle may have gathered all the swelling from the knee. After swelling has filled the joint, exact evaluation and diagnosis may be difficult. It is highly recommended that any time the athlete has a knee injury with popping or snapping in the joint they be evaluated by medical personnel.
Knee injuries can mean the end of an athlete s season.
With early care and a proper treatment plan a quick recovery can be expected.