Expert Sports Medicine

Knee Sports Injuries: Get Back in the Game

Comprehensive treatment for all types of sports-related knee injuries. From minor sprains to complex ligament tears, Dr. Daniel Feghgi provides personalized care to help athletes of all levels return to peak performance.

Schedule Your Consultation Call (973) 494-8244
Board Certified
Fellowship Trained
15+ Years Experience
Fitness, basketball knee injury or pain while on basketball court holding leg in exercise
Understanding Sports Injuries

What Are Knee Sports Injuries?

Knee sports injuries are damage to the knee joint that occur during athletic activities. These injuries can affect ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and bones.

Ligament Injuries

ACL, MCL, PCL, and LCL tears are common in high-impact sports. These injuries often occur from sudden stops, changes in direction, or direct impacts.

Meniscus Tears

The meniscus acts as a cushion between your thighbone and shinbone. Tears often occur from twisting motions or degeneration over time.

Tendon Injuries

Patellar tendonitis and quadriceps tendon injuries cause pain around the kneecap, often from overuse in running and jumping sports.

Fractures

Knee fractures can occur from falls or direct blows during sports. The patella (kneecap) is most commonly affected.

Dislocations

Knee dislocations are serious injuries where the bones of the knee are forced out of position, often requiring immediate medical attention.

Cartilage Damage

Articular cartilage injuries can result from trauma or wear and tear, causing pain and limiting knee movement.

Common Sports That Cause Knee Injuries

Football, basketball, soccer, skiing, tennis, and gymnastics are among the sports with the highest rates of knee injuries.

Recognition & Diagnosis

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Understanding the signs of knee sports injuries is crucial for timely treatment and optimal recovery outcomes.

Common Symptoms

Sudden, Severe Pain

Often occurs at the moment of injury, with immediate inability to continue activity.

Swelling

Knee swelling within 24 hours of injury, often indicating ligament or meniscus damage.

Instability

Feeling that your knee "gives way" or can't support your weight.

Limited Range of Motion

Difficulty bending or straightening the knee fully.

Limping

Changes in gait due to pain or instability when walking.

Diagnostic Methods

Physical Examination

Dr. Feghhi will evaluate knee stability, range of motion, and specific tests like Lachman and pivot shift tests.

X-Rays

Used to rule out fractures and assess bone alignment. Does not show soft tissue damage.

MRI Scan

Gold standard for visualizing ligaments, meniscus, cartilage, and other soft tissues.

CT Scan

Provides detailed images of bones, useful for complex fractures or pre-surgical planning.

Treatment Options

Treatment for Knee Sports Injuries

Dr. Feghhi offers comprehensive treatment options ranging from conservative management to advanced surgical interventions.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments

RICE Method

Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation to reduce swelling and pain in the first 72 hours.

Medications

NSAIDs and pain relievers to manage inflammation and discomfort during recovery.

Bracing

Knee braces provide support and stability during the healing process.

Physical Therapy

Customized exercise programs to strengthen muscles and restore function.

Surgical Treatments

Arthroscopic Surgery

Minimally invasive procedure using small incisions and a camera to repair meniscus tears, remove loose fragments, and treat cartilage damage.

  • Faster recovery
  • Less scarring
  • Outpatient procedure

ACL Reconstruction

Replacement of the torn ACL ligament with a graft, restoring knee stability for athletes returning to sports.

  • High success rate
  • Customized grafts
  • Advanced techniques

Meniscus Repair

Surgical repair of torn meniscus tissue, preserving the cushioning function of the meniscus when possible.

  • Preserves meniscus
  • Better long-term outcomes
  • Faster healing

MCL/PCL Reconstruction

Reconstruction of other knee ligaments damaged during sports activities, often combined with ACL surgery.

  • Multi-ligament repair
  • Comprehensive care
  • Customized approach

Cartilage Restoration

Advanced procedures including microfracture, OATs, and MACI to repair damaged articular cartilage.

  • Regenerates cartilage
  • Delays arthritis
  • Active lifestyle preservation

Knee Replacement

For severe injuries or degenerative conditions, partial or total knee replacement may be recommended.

  • Pain relief
  • Improved function
  • Long-lasting results
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about knee sports injuries.

Can I play sports after knee surgery?

What sports have the highest risk of knee injuries?

Do I need surgery for a knee sports injury?

How can I prevent knee sports injuries?

When should I see a doctor for a knee injury?

Ready to Get Back in the Game?

Don't let a knee sports injury keep you from doing what you love. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Daniel Feghhi today and get personalized treatment to return to your active lifestyle.

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Our Locations

Visit Our New Jersey Offices

Dr. Feghhi sees patients at multiple convenient locations throughout New Jersey.

Dover

400 W Blackwell St
Dover, NJ 07801

(973) 494-8244

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East Brunswick

East Brunswick, NJ

(973) 494-8244

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Elizabeth

Elizabeth, NJ

(973) 494-8244

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Hackensack

Hackensack, NJ

(973) 494-8244

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Wayne

Wayne, NJ

(973) 494-8244

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