Knee Pain After Car Accident: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

Knee injury from a car accident?

I was in a car accident last November and sustained a contusion on my right knee.
At that time, the doctor said that since I could walk normally, it was likely a soft tissue injury and did not order an X-ray.
The contusion healed, but even now, my knee still feels very sore, and it hurts a lot when I accidentally bump it.
I would like to ask what these symptoms might indicate.
If I need to seek medical attention, should I see an orthopedic specialist?

Chiao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/23

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

If there is no improvement in the bruise after a few months, it is advisable to see a doctor.
You can schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist.

Reply Date: 2016/04/23

More Info

After a car accident, it is not uncommon to experience lingering pain and discomfort, especially in the knees. Your description of ongoing knee pain, particularly after a contusion, raises several important considerations. Given that you were told your injury was a contusion and that no fractures were detected through X-rays, it's possible that the pain you are experiencing now could be due to soft tissue injuries, such as ligament sprains, meniscal tears, or even damage to the cartilage in the knee joint.

Knee contusions can lead to inflammation and swelling in the surrounding soft tissues, which may not always be visible on an X-ray. This inflammation can cause pain, especially when pressure is applied or when the knee is moved in certain ways. The fact that you are experiencing significant pain with light contact suggests that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In your case, it is advisable to see an orthopedic specialist. An orthopedic doctor specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries, including those affecting the knee. They can perform a thorough physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess the soft tissues, ligaments, and cartilage in your knee. An MRI can provide a clearer picture of any potential injuries that may not have been identified during your initial evaluation.

Additionally, if you have not already done so, it may be beneficial to consider physical therapy. A physical therapist can help you with exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. They can also provide modalities such as ice, heat, or electrical stimulation to help manage your symptoms.

In summary, given your ongoing symptoms of knee pain following a contusion from a car accident, it is important to seek further evaluation from an orthopedic specialist. They can help determine the exact cause of your pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan to facilitate your recovery. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so it is wise to address these concerns sooner rather than later.

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