Baseball knee injuries are divided into two categories: acute and overuse. Acute injury arises with a sudden trauma, such as a torn cartilage; an overuse knee injury usually develops gradually, a result of the demanding repetitive motions required by baseball. World of Sports Science notes that poor body mechanics in performing baseball fundamentals can contribute to both types of injury. Stretching exercises and using proper form can help reduce risk. If you have pain and swelling in your knee, consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Torn ACL
An ACL tear is a rip in the anterior cruciate ligament, one of four ligaments that help to stabilize the knee. Athletic Edge notes that ACL tears are most likely to occur when you are running bases, especially if you pivot abruptly. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms include a loud popping or snapping sound, along with severe pain, knee swelling that increases for several hours after the injury and a feeling of instability. ACL tears may be treated with arthroscopic surgery and physical therapy. The Mayo Clinic advises using rest, ice, compression and elevation to reduce swelling and discomfort. You may also take anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, if you don't have conditions that preclude their use.
Meniscal Tear
Meniscal tears -- rips in the cartilage that cushions the knee -- are common among baseball players, and usually occur when one foot is planted in place while the body twists. Symptoms include stiffness and swelling that worsens over several days, along with throbbing pain, an unstable feeling in the joint and limited range of motion. You may also feel a "catching" sensation. Doctors often diagnose meniscal tears using the McMurray test, in which the knee clicks when rotated. X-rays and MRIs may also be utilized. The location of the tear dictates whether arthroscopic surgery is needed; the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons notes that small rips on the outside of the meniscus may heal with home treatment, including rest, ice, compression, elevation and anti-inflammatory medications. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy and range-of-motion exercises. The website adds that patients can often recover completely from meniscal tears.
Knee Bursitis
Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursae, the fluid-filled sacs that lubricate and cushion muscles and tendons. Although knee bursitis is commonly known as "housemaid's knee," Arthritis MD notes that this repetitive motion overuse injury can strike athletes as well. Symptoms include pain -- which may manifest as a dull or throbbing ache, and worsens on movement or pressure -- swelling, warmth and redness over the knee. Bursitis can be diagnosed by physical exam, X-ray and MRI, and is treated with rest, immobilization and ice. Topically applied analgesic sprays and creams may be used to alleviate pain. Bursitis can become infected, with serious consequences. Arthritis MD says to consult your doctor immediately if you have chills, fever, nausea or diarrhea. Infected bursitis may be surgically drained and treated with antibiotics.
Preventing Knee Injuries in Baseball
According to Athletic Edge, warming up with least five minutes of cardiovascular exercise -- such as jogging or cycling -- can help prevent baseball injuries. Cardio should be followed by five to 20 minutes of dynamic stretches that use momentum and active muscular effort to limber up the body. The website adds that wearing protective leg guards, avoiding dehydration, and avoiding playing when overtired may also help reduce chances of injury.
