Treatment of a hyperextended knee will vary on a case by case basis. Specifically, the method(s) of treatment chosen by a doctor will be contingent upon the strength of the athlete’s knee joint, their medical history, and their desire to return to athletic competition. Further, the severity of the hyperextension (whether or not ligament or cartilage damage was sustained) will also affect the treatment process. Some common methods of treating knee hyperextension include

  • Anti-inflammatory medications may be used in order to reduce swelling of the knee joint.
  • RICE (resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the knee) is advised.

    See The P.R.I.C.E. Protocol Principles

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  • In traumatic incidences, surgery may be necessary to repair damage that occurred during the hyperextension of the knee. Typically, this process will be aimed at repairing and reconstructing ligaments and meniscus.

    See Meniscal Tear Treatment

  • If surgery is necessary, physical therapy will follow to restore strength and range of motion to the athlete’s knee joint.
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Though treatment of a knee hyperextension will vary on a case to case basis, surgery will typically only be necessary for the more severe instances of the condition.

Dr. Sean Colio is a sports medicine physician specializing in the treatment and prevention of sports and musculoskeletal injuries. He serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Stanford University. Dr. Colio co-founded the Sports Concussion Clinic at Swedish Spine, Sports & Musculoskeletal Medicine.

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