KNEE PROBLEMS AFFECT MILLIONS OF PEOPLE (OF ALL AGES) EACH YEAR.

As the largest joint in the body, the knee is constructed of bone, cartilage, ligament and muscle. The knee's complex structure also makes it vulnerable to a range of injuries, from mild sprains to major ligament damage. At Forsyth Regional Orthopaedic Center, we offer expert diagnosis, surgical and other treatment options, as well as rehabilitative services for sports-related injuries. Here are the most frequent types of serious knee injuries:

Torn ACL

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is usually injured during participation in sports – especially football and basketball – by sudden changes in speed or direction.

MCL Injury

The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is most often injured by direct impact to the outer side of the knee, more often than not during athletic competition.

PCL Injury

The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is vulnerable to direct impact to the front of the knee, as well as awkward motions caused by something as routine as a misstep.

Torn Cartilage

The most common type of torn-cartilage injury is a tear in the meniscus. Again, athletic competition is often involved.

"Back in the Sixties, I had surgery on my knee after I injured it playing high-school football. Over time, though, the knee became weak – and 40 years later, I was experiencing a lot of pain and stiffness in it. Luckily, I was friends with one of the surgeons at Forsyth Regional Orthopaedic Center.

After examining me, he recommended a total knee replacement 'whenever you're ready.' Well, I was ready for a better quality of life. I had my surgery on Monday, got out on Wednesday and came back to work 10 days later. I feel like I'm 15 years younger. I'm playing golf again and exercising – and I've lost 20 pounds!"
Mike S.