You twist your knee when the lower or upper leg turns in a different direction than the knee itself. This type of injury often results in a knee sprain.
Here's a breakdown of how this happens:
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Twisting Motion: The primary mechanism is a rotational force applied to the knee joint while the foot is planted or the leg is otherwise stabilized. This creates excessive stress on the ligaments and other structures of the knee.
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Directional Differences: Imagine your foot is firmly on the ground. If your body suddenly rotates to the left, but your knee is forced to remain straight or rotate differently, the ligaments can stretch or tear.
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Examples:
- Sports: Sudden changes in direction in sports like basketball, soccer, skiing, and ice hockey are common causes. For instance, a basketball player planting their foot to pivot, but their body quickly turns another way.
- Direct Impact: Being hit on the side of the knee can also cause a twisting motion, even if the leg isn't directly rotating. A blow from the front can also create instability and twisting.
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Contributing Factors:
- Poor Conditioning: Weak muscles around the knee joint offer less support and increase the risk of injury.
- Improper Footwear: Shoes that don't provide adequate support or traction can contribute to instability and twisting injuries.
- Fatigue: Muscle fatigue can decrease reaction time and coordination, making individuals more susceptible to knee injuries.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Previous knee injuries or ligament laxity can make the knee more vulnerable.
In essence, a twisted knee occurs when the knee joint is forced beyond its normal range of motion due to a combination of rotational forces and potentially other factors like impact and pre-existing conditions.
