Injuries to the cruciate ligament are common in running, jumping and contact sports. In car accidents, where the person does not wear a seat belt, ligaments may be injured when their knees are thrown into the dashboard. Someone who is out of shape or who has had a previous knee injury is more prone to injure their knees. Cruciate injuries can be sprains or tears of the ligament. A mild sprain gives mild pain.
Treatment is usually rest and support with an elastic bandage.
Ice and anti-inflammatory medication like aspirin or ibuprofen will assist with swelling and discomfort. Recovery is slow, but usually complete. A severe sprain or tear is a serious injury. These may require special bracing or surgery. See your healthcare provider if you have knee pain that does not go away.