Final answer:
Identifying a fractured knee joint requires understanding that symptoms of a fracture can vary. Localized pain is not always present and range of motion can be retained. Seeking medical attention is essential for diagnosis, and may involve physical examination and imaging tests.
Step-by-step explanation:
How to Identify a Fractured Knee Joint
When concerned about a knee joint injury, it is important to understand that symptoms can vary and a fracture may not always be immediately obvious. The myth that a bone is fractured only if there is very localized pain over the break is not always true. In fact, even with a fracture, muscles and tendons might still move the bone normally.
Assessment after an injury might show that the knee retains some range of motion, and this doesn't necessarily rule out the possibility of a fracture. Also, while many fractures result in bruising, this is not always the case, and when it does occur, bruising might not be visible until several hours or days later.
Knee injuries often involve damage to ligaments and other structures. For example, a strong blow to the lateral side of an extended knee can lead to a ‘terrible triad’ injury affecting the tibial collateral ligament, medial meniscus, and anterior cruciate ligament.
When a knee injury is suspected, and particularly when a fracture is a possibility, it is critical to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis. This often involves a physical examination and may require imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI to confirm whether a fracture has occurred.