Knee Injury Concerns: When to Seek Medical Attention and Treatment Options

Knee contusion issues?

Last week while riding a bike, my boyfriend turned without paying attention, and my left knee collided directly with a roadside pillar.
At that moment, I felt intense pain and held my knee, experiencing a throbbing pain inside, as if something was jumping.
Later, I noticed that my knee was neither red nor swollen, and although it felt strange while walking, I was still able to walk, so I didn't see a doctor.
Now, after a week, my knee still feels a dull sensation, and when I bend it to a certain angle, I feel a "pop" as if something is being pulled apart, but it’s not very painful.
However, when I bend my knee or kneel down, the injured area suddenly experiences sharp pain (but the appearance remains unchanged).
I'm a bit worried about what might be wrong with my knee now.
I want to see a doctor but I'm not sure which specialty would be best.
Some people have suggested that I go to a traditional Chinese medicine clinic for massage; would that be more appropriate?

Lurén Jiǎ, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/24

Dr. Zhou Jianwen reply Rehabilitation

It could be an intra-articular knee disorder; it is recommended to seek evaluation and treatment from an orthopedic or rehabilitation clinic.

Reply Date: 2016/11/24

More Info

When it comes to knee injuries, especially after a traumatic event like a collision, it is crucial to pay attention to the symptoms and seek appropriate medical care. Based on your description, you experienced immediate pain and discomfort in your left knee after hitting it against a post while riding a motorcycle. Although you did not notice any swelling or bruising at the time, the persistent "dull" sensation and the "popping" feeling you describe when bending your knee are concerning signs that should not be ignored.

When to Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:
1. Persistent Pain: If the pain continues beyond a few days or worsens, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional.

2. Swelling: While you mentioned no swelling initially, any new swelling should prompt a visit to the doctor.

3. Limited Range of Motion: If you find it difficult to bend or straighten your knee fully, this could indicate a more serious injury.

4. Popping or Clicking Sounds: These sounds can suggest ligament or cartilage damage, especially if accompanied by pain.

5. Instability: If your knee feels unstable or gives way, this is a significant concern.

6. Difficulty Walking: If you find it increasingly difficult to walk or bear weight on the affected leg, you should seek medical attention.

Recommended Treatment Options
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to see an orthopedic specialist rather than a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for a few reasons:
- Orthopedic Evaluation: An orthopedic doctor specializes in musculoskeletal injuries and can provide a thorough evaluation of your knee. They may perform a physical examination and order imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to assess for any ligament tears, cartilage damage, or other injuries.

- Potential Injuries: Based on your description, you could be dealing with a sprain of the ligaments, a meniscus tear, or even a patellar injury. These conditions often require specific treatment protocols, which an orthopedic specialist is best equipped to provide.

- Treatment Options: Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
- Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE): This is a standard initial treatment for acute injuries.

- Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation program can help restore strength and range of motion.

- Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation, but be sure to discuss any allergies with your doctor.

- Surgery: In cases of severe ligament tears or significant cartilage damage, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Conclusion
In summary, while it may be tempting to wait and see if your symptoms improve, it is crucial to seek medical attention sooner rather than later. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact your recovery and help prevent long-term complications. An orthopedic specialist will provide the most appropriate care for your knee injury, ensuring that you receive the necessary imaging and treatment options tailored to your specific condition. Do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and get the care you need.

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