Knee Pain and Swelling After a Fall: A Guide - Orthopedics

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Knee pain and swelling after a fall can be a common issue, especially if there is a history of trauma. In your mother's case, the fact that she fell from a height and has been experiencing pain and swelling for over a month indicates that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed.
Firstly, it's important to understand that even if X-rays show no fractures, there can still be soft tissue injuries, such as ligament sprains, meniscus tears, or damage to the cartilage. The symptoms of pain, swelling, and warmth you described could suggest inflammation, which is a natural response of the body to injury. This inflammation can be due to various reasons, including:
1. Soft Tissue Injury: The fall may have caused damage to the ligaments, tendons, or muscles around the knee. These injuries can lead to swelling and pain, especially when moving the knee or bearing weight on it.

2. Bursitis: The knee has several bursae (small fluid-filled sacs) that help reduce friction between tissues. If these bursae become inflamed due to trauma, it can lead to a condition known as bursitis, which can cause localized swelling and pain.

3. Meniscus Injury: The meniscus is a cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thigh bone and shin bone. A tear in the meniscus can occur during a fall and may not always be visible on an X-ray. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and sometimes a locking sensation in the knee.

4. Synovitis: This is inflammation of the synovial membrane, which lines the joint. It can occur after an injury and lead to swelling and warmth in the knee.

Given that your mother has had these symptoms for over a month, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional. An orthopedic specialist may recommend additional imaging studies, such as an MRI, which can provide a clearer picture of the soft tissues in the knee and help identify any injuries that may not have been visible on the X-ray.

In the meantime, there are several strategies to manage her symptoms:
- Rest: Avoid activities that put weight on the knee or cause pain. This will help reduce inflammation and allow the tissues to heal.

- Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the knee for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to protect the skin.

- Compression: Using an elastic bandage or knee brace can help control swelling and provide support to the knee.

- Elevation: Keeping the knee elevated above the level of the heart can help reduce swelling.

- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication, especially if there are other health considerations.

- Physical Therapy: Once the acute pain and swelling have subsided, a physical therapist can help design a rehabilitation program to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility.

In conclusion, while the initial X-ray results are reassuring, the ongoing symptoms your mother is experiencing warrant further investigation. Prompt medical attention can help identify the underlying cause of her knee pain and swelling, allowing for appropriate treatment and a better chance of recovery.