What are the Common Medical Treatments for a Fractured Knee?

Knee Fracture Care: Medications, Therapy & Surgical Interventions

A fractured knee can be a painful and debilitating injury that may significantly limit daily activities. Bearing one-eighth of your total body weight, your knees assist in life's major activities, whether it's running, walking, jogging, or climbing stairs.

Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend the standard medical treatments for a knee fracture in the event of an accident. Read ahead to learn about the standard medical treatments for a fractured knee, which depend on the severity and type of fracture.

The Standard Medical Treatments for Knee Fractures

Knee fractures are relatively standard in India and are driven by several contributing factors. These fractures are common in all age groups but are most prevalent in the 18 to 50-year-old age range and are also more common in males compared to females.

Treatment for fractures depends on the type,  severity, and any predisposing factors; however, the most common treatments are as follows:  

• Knee Casting: Minor fractures are often treated with a knee cast or brace, helping to keep the joint in place. This prevents unwanted movement, which could worsen the condition and the recovery process of the joint.
• Medications: Pain and swelling are commonly associated with fractures and typically occur within the first 24 hours after the injury. To reduce the pain and discomfort associated with a fracture, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are prescribed to deal with the pain.
• Physical Therapy: Visiting a physiotherapist in case of a knee injury is vital. The therapy is provided in the form of exercise that facilitates mobilization. It also relieves pain and inflammation and promotes weight-bearing on the joint, thereby strengthening it. This usually increases joint flexibility and reduces stiffness.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention is often needed to realign fractured bones. Metal plates, screws, and rods may be used to stabilize the joint and hold it in place from the inside. This prevents internal injuries, as well as bleeding that the broken bone fragments can cause.
• Knee Replacement Surgery: In rare cases, mainly among older adults, especially those with bone diseases that cause gradual weakening of the bones, fractures can happen. The damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a synthetic implant.

What are the Essential Practices to Help Manage a Fractured Knee?

Knee fractures can be painful, making the slightest movement unbearable. Managing a fractured knee requires a combination of treatment, medication, rehabilitation and self-care.

To facilitate a swift return to optimal health, it is best to adhere to the following practices:

• Implement the R.I.C.E. Method: R.I.C.E. stands for “Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation,” which helps reduce pain and swelling.
• Limit Movement: It is crucial to adhere to weight-bearing restrictions; utilization of mobility devices such as crutches and walkers prevents unwanted compression on the joint but also promotes mobility.
• Maintain a Balanced Diet: Consuming food rich in vitamin D and calcium will promote a speedy recovery.
• Avoid High-Impact Activities: It is essential to limit vigorous activities such as carrying heavy objects, stair climbing, and gym workouts.

What are the Recovery Tips to Practice in Case of a Fractured Knee?

Recovering from a knee fracture requires a comprehensive approach that includes diet modifications, lifestyle changes, and regular physical activity. These simple changes can accelerate recovery, promote good health, and enhance one's overall well-being.

To improve your knee recovery, follow the tips listed below:

• Mild Physical Activity: Engaging in activities such as yoga, tai chi, and Pilates promotes knee health by increasing strength, promoting weight-bearing exercise, and enhancing flexibility.
• Diet Modification: Making changes to the food you consume can make significant differences. Opt for green leafy vegetables, fruit juices, whole grains, and protein.
• Good Posture: Maintaining an appropriate posture relieves stress on the joints, whether you are lying down, sitting, or standing position.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking an ample amount of water promotes joint health. It keeps the joints lubricated and prevents dehydration, which leads to joint pain.

Is Health Insurance Available for Knee-Related Medical Treatment?

Yes, health insurance typically covers medical treatment involving the knees, including total knee replacement surgery, which may become necessary due to severe complications. Knee replacement surgery ideally involves foreign high-quality materials. However, knee replacement surgery is an expensive procedure.

Getting health insurance will cover the surgeon's fees, the cost of medication, and taxes associated with importing medical equipment. Overall, it will make your treatment stress-free, allowing you the time to rest and recover.

Knee fractures can often be corrected with various medical treatments specially tailored to the severity and the cause of the injury, such as physical therapy, medication, and surgery.

The assistance of comprehensive health care insurance allows patients to access high-quality treatment without the burden of financial stress.

At Star Health, we also offer coverage for knee replacement surgery under our Star Comprehensive Insurance Policy. We provide hassle-free claim settlements with reduced turnaround time across over 14,000 network hospitals in India.

Also Read:

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→ How Does PRP Treat Knee Pain Effectively

→ What are the Best Home Remedies for Relieving Knee Pain