dramatic lesion shown in this illustration.

This is another reason not to assume that every unusual-looking knee image represents the most common cause of knee pain.

Injuries Can Also Produce Dramatic Changes

A serious injury can damage bones, cartilage, ligaments, or other tissues.

Fractures can alter the normal shape of the joint.

Severe ligament injuries can destabilize the knee.

Meniscus tears can cause pain and mechanical symptoms.

Repeated injuries can contribute to long-term degeneration.

If pain began after a major accident, fall, twisting injury, or sports collision, it should be

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