Torn ligament or tendon

Knee painmay be caused by torn ligaments or tendons. Ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect the bones at the knee joint; tendons connect the muscles to the bone.You can tear these tissues during running sports such as rugby or football.

Injuredtendons or knee ligaments at the side of the knee may cause pain even when the knee is at rest, which may get worse when you bend the knee or put weight on it. There may also be warmth and swelling around the knee.

If you feel that your knee is also unstable or keeps "giving way", you may have torn the anterior cruciate ligament (one of the main knee ligaments). This probably resulted from a sudden change in direction or a twisting movement, and you mayhave heard a pop when it happened.

You shouldsee your GP if this happens, and you may be referred to an orthopaedic specialist for advice and treatment. In some cases, surgery may be recommended. Read about surgery to repair a damaged knee ligament .

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dez 2018