In the case of a bucket handle tear from a hard landing, which joint is likely injured?

A bucket handle tear is a specific type of knee injury that typically involves a meniscal tear, where a portion of the meniscus is displaced and resembles a "bucket handle." This injury often occurs during activities that involve a sudden twisting motion or impact, such as landing hard after a jump.

In the context of a hard landing, the forces exerted on the knee joint can lead to such a tear, especially when there is a combination of torque and shear on the meniscus. The knee joint, being a complex structure with significant forces acting upon it during high-impact activities, is susceptible to meniscal injuries under these circumstances.

Other joints mentioned, like the ankle, hip, and elbow, are not typically associated with bucket handle tears. Ankle injuries usually involve sprains or fractures, while the hip joint experiences different types of injuries related to dislocations or fractures. The elbow, on the other hand, is more prone to ligament injuries and dislocations but not to bucket handle tears of the meniscus. Hence, the knee is the correct answer as it is directly involved in this specific type of injury.