- #1
SkepticJ
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Why is it that if you get hit just right and hard on the knee you drop to the ground and feel like you're going to throw up or weird at least?
Why Does a Hard Hit to the Knee Make You Feel Sick?
- Thread starter SkepticJ
- Start date
In summary, getting hit just right and hard on the knee can cause you to drop to the ground because it affects your balance. The sick feeling you experience may be due to the intense pain and the release of endogenous opioids in your body, which can also cause dizziness and nausea.
- #2
Moonbear
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
Gold Member
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SkepticJ said:
I thought only us "Joiseyans" were skilled in the fine art of knee cap breaking.
As for dropping to the ground, that's the easy answer. When you get hit in the knee, you lose your balance. Since the motion of your knee is important for keeping yourself stable while standing, the right strike to the knee prevents you from correcting your balance and catching yourself from falling.
As for the sick feeling, I can only guess. I'm assuming when you get hit hard enough to fall, it also hurts like heck. The sick feeling would then be the same reason you'd feel sick after any really painful injury...the rush of endogenous opioids that works as an analgesic can also make you feel a bit dizzy and/or nauseous.
- #3
ravenprp
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The reason for this phenomenon is due to the close proximity of the knee to the solar plexus, which is a nerve bundle located just below the ribcage. When the knee is hit with enough force, the impact can send a shockwave through the body, stimulating the solar plexus and causing a feeling of nausea or dizziness. Additionally, the sudden pain and discomfort in the knee can also trigger a reflex response in the body, causing a feeling of weakness or faintness. This is a natural defense mechanism to protect the body from further injury.
FAQ: Why Does a Hard Hit to the Knee Make You Feel Sick?
What is the purpose of knee caps?
Knee caps, also known as patellae, serve as a protective shield for the knee joint. They also increase the leverage of the quadriceps muscles, allowing for more powerful movements.
Why do knee caps sometimes hurt?
Knee cap pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, overuse, or medical conditions such as arthritis. Consult with a doctor to determine the cause and appropriate treatment for your knee cap pain.
Can knee cap pain be prevented?
Yes, knee cap pain can be prevented by maintaining a healthy weight, using proper form during physical activities, and stretching and strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee joint.
How do knee caps relate to feeling sick?
Knee cap pain itself does not typically cause feelings of sickness. However, if the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, it could be a sign of a more serious condition that may cause feelings of sickness. Consult with a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Can feeling sick affect knee cap function?
Feeling sick, such as having a cold or the flu, can cause general fatigue and weakness in the body, which may affect knee cap function. However, once the illness has passed, knee cap function should return to normal.