Tennis is a sport that requires a player to be able to swing, run, hit and quickly maneuver across a tennis court. Tennis is physically demanding and requires flexibility along with conditioning. Sprains and overuse injuries are common in tennis players. Knee dislocations can occur in tennis, although they are uncommon.
Knee Dislocations
Knee dislocations occur as the result of a sudden twist of the knee or a sudden change in direction. Dislocations can also occur as the result of a direct blow to the knee. This occurs most commonly during contact sports such as soccer, basketball, football and hockey. A knee dislocation occurs when the knee is moved outside of its normal positioning. This can occur spontaneously or can be the result of weak or previously injured ligaments surrounding the knee. When the surrounding ligaments are weak or damaged, the knee is less stable. Symptoms of a knee dislocation include severe pain, swelling, bruising and a sense of instability when trying to walk or extend your knee.
Treatment
A knee dislocation requires immediate medical attention. Failure to treat a knee dislocation can result in repeated dislocations and deformity of the knee. Conservative care for a knee dislocation includes immobilizing the knee. Immobilization allows the swelling to be reduced and the knee to remain straight as it heals. Physical therapy and the use of a knee brace for support may also be considered. For repeat or severe dislocations, surgery may be performed. Surgery can help to stabilize the knee and remove any scarred tissue.
Common Tennis Injuries
According to Hughston Health Alert, tennis injuries are most commonly associated with the elbow, wrist, back, knee, calf, shoulder, Achilles tendons, ankles and toes. Injuries often occur as the result of poor conditioning, poor tennis form and overuse. Injuries may include rotator cuff tendinitis, wrist strains, back pain, tennis toe, Achilles tendinitis, patellar tendinitis, ankle sprains and calf muscle injuries.
Patellar Tendinitis
The most common knee injury that occurs during tennis is patellar -- or knee -- tendinitis. Patellar tendinitis occurs as the result of inflammation to the tendon that connects your knee to your shinbone. This tendon allows you to extend your lower leg and pivot as you participate in tennis. Patellar tendinitis is an overuse injury that can be caused by jumping, over-training, tight quadriceps and obesity. Symptoms of this condition include pain, especially during participation in tennis and immediately following exercise. Pain may run from your knee down to your shinbone. Patellar tendinitis is normally treated conservatively through rest, stretching your thigh and leg muscles, anti-inflammatory medications, ice and bracing your knee for stabilization during tennis. Surgery is rarely required.
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