What are some common work-related knee injuries?

Knee injuries are a significant concern for many workers. This pain can impact a worker’s ability to perform tasks and maintain productivity.

Understanding common knee injuries, as well as recognizing the symptoms and causes of this issue, is important.

Meniscus tears

The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thighbone and shinbone. A sudden twist or turn can tear the meniscus.

This type of injury often affects workers who frequently squat or kneel. Symptoms include pain, swelling and a feeling that the knee is locking or giving way.

Tendinitis

Tendinitis is the inflammation of tendons, which are thick bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. This condition often results from repetitive movements, which workers may do in construction or assembly line jobs.

Patellar tendinitis, also known as jumper’s knee, affects the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. Symptoms include pain just below the kneecap, swelling and stiffness.

Bursitis

Repetitive kneeling, leaning on hard surfaces or direct blows to the knee can cause bursitis. Workers who spend a lot of time on their knees, like carpet layers or gardeners, are at higher risk. Symptoms include swelling, tenderness and pain when moving or putting pressure on the knee.

Fractures

Fractures around the knee can happen due to high-impact trauma, such as falls or collisions with heavy objects. Patellar fractures involve the kneecap, while other fractures can affect the bones forming the knee joint. Symptoms of knee fractures include severe pain, swelling and an inability to move the knee or bear weight on the leg.

Early intervention and proper workplace practices can help reduce the risk of knee injuries and promote a safer environment. Anyone facing a knee injury from work may want to seek fair compensation.