No matter their age, hockey goalies take a beating. Pucks bound for the goalie can reach speeds of 110 miles per hour or faster, requiring the goalie to move quickly. Given that the average weight of goalie padding is approximately 50 pounds, it's easy to understand the wear and tear your body takes, especially your knees. The British Columbia Injury Research and Prevention Unit explains that the most commonly experienced injury in junior hockey players is the sprain, or hyperextension, of a limb. This, as well as other awkward movements, can cause a goalie's knees to hurt.
Using Your Knees as a Goalie
Tending the goal net requires the proper goaltending stance. This stance, according to Rutgers University, requires you to maintain weight on the balls of your feet as you balance on your skates. A strong bend in both knees, also known as a low position, prepares the muscles of your legs for quick reaction. This stance uses all the kinetic force from the legs, pushing off the knees and propelling force in the direction of the oncoming puck. Knee pads allow you to place your knee in front of your body if necessary to block.
Likely Causes of Knee Pain
Knee pain is commonly caused by injuries to the tendons, ligaments, cartilage and joints and often occurs from repetitive motion. MayoClinic.com explains that a sudden change in direction or several of these changes can lead to a tearing of the ligament that connects your shin to your thigh. Twisting your knee can cause the small sac, or bursa, that sits between joints to rupture or tear. This joint can also become inflamed with consistent use, known as bursitis. Tendonitis can occur in the tendons that connect your upper leg muscle to your shin and is also caused by repetitive motion.
Other Possible Causes of Knee Pain
Other potential causes of knee pain can include arthritis that develops in joints, causing inflammation and pain. Bone spurs or small fractured-off fragments of bone can travel through your bloodstream and lodge in joints, causing significant pain and occasional or frequent locking. Frequent use or injury to your kneecaps can cause them to break away from the tendon or ligament, dislocating them to the outer portion of your knees. Also, if you adjust your stance or movement because of other types of pain such as back or hip pain, you may unknowingly injure your knees.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment for knee pain generally depends on the source of the pain. Anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce pain and swelling caused by injury or arthritis. Injections of steroid medications or replacement fluid between the joints can also decrease pain and inflammation. Surgery may be necessary for a dislocated kneecap, torn ligament or muscle or, in less severe cases, physical therapy, immobilization, rest, ice, compression and elevation. See your physician if you are experiencing knee pain in order to determine and treat the cause.
