How Does a Hyperextended Knee Affect You in Sports?

Introduction 

A hyperextended knee occurs when the knee is forced to straighten beyond its normal range of motion, often resulting in damage to ligaments, cartilage, and other structures within the joint. It is a common injury among athletes across a wide variety of sports. The severity of the condition depends on the cause of injury and each individual athlete’s body.

If you are looking for physiotherapy in the Ampang area, our nearest branch will be at Synapse Physiotherapy Jalan Ampang. Our team of expert physiotherapists will be able to assess all your sporting injury needs. In this article we will be taking a closer look at how hyperextended knees can affect your performance in sports and how physiotherapy can help you fix that problem.

Due to the nature of this injury, this injury is particularly concerning for athletes, as it can significantly impact their performance and participation in sports. Understanding the implications of a hyperextended knee is crucial for athletes, coaches, and medical professionals.

 Mechanism of Injury

Hyperextension of the knee can occur to anyone, but they are frequently the result of athletic injuries. Athletes who compete in contact sports like football, soccer, or hockey are most commonly affected. This type of injury typically happens during activities that involve sudden stops, jumps, or changes in direction.

Common scenarios include:

• Landing awkwardly from a jump – The impact can push the knee backward.
• Direct blow to the knee – A tackle or collision can force the knee into hyperextension.
• Quick deceleration or pivoting – These movements can place excessive strain on the knee joint.

When too much weight or pressure forces the knee into extension, the joint can extend further than its true range of motion, causing soft tissue damage, swelling, and potentially tears or sprains of the MCL, LCL, ACL or PCL.

In minor  cases, an athlete will notice small amounts of pain and swelling, however in a traumatic injury, hyperextension of the knee may also cause damage to the surrounding ligaments, cartilage and soft tissues.

 Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms will range from mild to severe depending on how far back the knee was bent. The severity of the injury and damage to the surrounding tissues and ligaments affects how much pain and swelling a person will experience.

In most cases, hyperextension of the knee will have obvious and immediate symptoms including:

• Pain – Ranges from mild to severe, often located in the back of the knee and pain will be localised. Depending on whether or not one of the primary ligaments in the joint was damaged, the pain usually will be concentrated to one area. 
• Swelling – Can occur rapidly and is a common occurrence after hyperextension of the knee. This will reduce knee mobility and may look like there is water in the knee joint.
• Instability – The knee may feel weak and wobbly or unable to support weight. After a hyperextension injury, the knee will feel like it is giving out or buckling. 
• Limited range of motion – This will manifest as  reduced range of motion due to weakness in the joint, swelling, and pain. The individual will feel difficulty in bending or straightening the knee fully.

Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRIs or a CT-scan, to assess the extent of the injury and identify any damage to ligaments, cartilage, or bone.

 Impact on Athletic Performance

A hyperextended knee can severely affect an athlete’s performance and ability to participate in sports:

1. Reduced Mobility: Swelling and pain can limit the knee’s range of motion, making it difficult to perform basic movements like running, jumping, or pivoting.
2. Decreased Strength and Stability: Injury to the ligaments, such as the ACL or PCL, compromises the knee’s stability, increasing the risk of further injury and reducing the power generated during movements.
3. Pain and Discomfort: Persistent pain can be a major distraction and can reduce an athlete’s ability to perform at their best.
4. Psychological Impact: Fear of re-injury can lead to decreased confidence and hesitancy, affecting performance and decision-making during games.
5. Prolonged Recovery Time: Depending on the severity, recovery can take weeks to months, during which the athlete may be unable to train or compete, leading to loss of conditioning and skills.

Treatment and Rehabilitation

Recovery time for such a knee injury can vary from individual to individual. In less severe cases, a person may recover within 2 to 4 weeks from the time of injury . However if surgery is required, it is likely that recovery will take much longer as it can take up to 6 months or more. During which, rehabilitation and physiotherapy is of utmost importance to facilitate your gradual return to sports and ensure a full recovery.

Effective management of a hyperextended knee involves several steps:

Immediate Care: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) are crucial in the initial stages to reduce swelling and pain.

Medical Intervention: Severe cases may require physical therapy or surgery to repair damaged ligaments and restore stability.

Rehabilitation: A structured rehabilitation program focuses on restoring range of motion, strength, and stability. Exercises targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles are essential.

Gradual Return to Sport: Athletes should return to sports gradually, starting with low-impact activities and progressing to sport-specific drills under the guidance of a medical professional.

Prevention Strategies 

Preventing hyperextension injuries is essential for athletes:

Strength Training: Strong muscles around the knee can provide better support and stability.

Flexibility: Regular stretching can maintain joint flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.

Proper Technique: Learning and maintaining proper techniques during sports can minimise undue stress on the knees.

Protective Gear: Wearing appropriate braces or supports during high-risk activities can offer additional protection.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to recover from a hyperextended knee?

Recovery time varies but typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the injury.

2. Can you play sports with a hyperextended knee?

It’s not advisable to continue playing sports with a hyperextended knee without proper treatment, as it can worsen the injury and lead to long-term damage.

3. Is surgery necessary for a hyperextended knee?

Surgery is only required in severe cases where ligaments or cartilage are significantly damaged. Most cases can be treated with physical therapy and rehabilitation.

4. How can I prevent a hyperextended knee in the future

Strengthening the muscles around your knee, improving flexibility, and wearing proper protective gear during sports can reduce the risk of hyperextension.

5. What should I do immediately after a hyperextended knee injury?

Apply the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), seek medical advice, and avoid putting pressure on the knee until it’s properly evaluated.

Conclusion

A hyperextended knee is a serious injury that can significantly hinder an athlete’s performance and participation in sports. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments is crucial for effective management and recovery. Through proper prevention strategies, athletes can reduce the risk of hyperextension injuries and maintain their peak performance levels.