Although most karate injuries are bruises and head injuries, knee injuries are also quite frequent, and it's easy to imagine why. Your knees take a beating in karate. From kicks to posts to horse stance, the constant bending, impact and explosive movement all take a toll. If you experience knee pain from karate, you could be suffering from a number of issues.
Hyperextension
When you practice kicking into air, your master probably tells you not to kick full force, especially during ball kicks. Front kicks especially are powered by the strength of your core, quad and hip flexor. If you're very strong, these muscles could be stronger than your knee joint. Kicking full force into the air without a solid object to stop the arc can cause your leg to hyperextend, or basically bend backward. This can also happen as the result of taking a blow, and in severe cases, can tear your anterior cruciate ligament, warns MayoClinic.com.
Rotational Injuries
Rotational injuries happen when your balance is poor or you're lazy with your form. Think about your supporting leg when you kick. Do you wobble or rotate your body at all? Your knees are meant to work like hinges, and attempting to adjust your position by turning your body without moving your foot places tremendous strain on your tendons and ligaments. Pay close attention when learning new moves, and move slowly through new actions until you're sure you are strong enough and have enough balance to completely them safely.
Overuse Injuries
The most common cause of a knee injury is overuse. If the pain is on the sides of your knee, it's likely iliotibial band syndrome, and if it's in front of your knee, it's likely patellofemoral syndrome. These same injuries are common in athletes from many sports and can cause chronic problems if not addressed. The sheer repetitive stress on the knee, often supporting your entire body weight, wears out the parts. Strengthening your hamstrings and quads and paying close attention to form can prevent or help mitigate the pain. Ask your master to critique your form and point out your weaknesses so you know your weak spots.
When To Be Concerned
If the pain is sudden, severe or accompanied by swelling, seek medical attention. Rest, ice, compression and elevation are usually enough for mild symptoms, and ibuprofen can help reduce swelling and inflammation. If your pain worsens over the course of a few days, consult your doctor. You may have a serious injury that should be addressed.
