A knee sprain is one or more stretched, partly torn, or completely torn knee ligaments. Ligaments are bands of ropelike tissue that connect bone to bone and make the knee stable. The knee has four main ligaments.
Knee sprains often happen because of a twisting or bending injury from sports such as skiing, basketball, soccer, or football. The knee turns one way while the lower or upper leg goes another way. A sprain also can happen when the knee is hit from the side or the front.
If a knee ligament is slightly stretched, you will probably need only home treatment. You may need a splint or brace (immobilizer) for a partly torn ligament. A complete tear may need surgery. A minor knee sprain may take up to 6 weeks to heal, while a severe sprain may take months.
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