Kicked above the knee while playing baseball?
Two days ago, I was accidentally kicked above the knee on my thigh while playing basketball.
It has been painful for two days without improvement.
I experience joint pain when walking, and I have been using ice packs and topical ointments.
Quan Quan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/04
Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! It is recommended to see an orthopedic specialist to check if there is any damage to the tendons or ligaments.
Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!
Reply Date: 2018/03/04
More Info
Knee pain following a direct impact, such as being kicked above the knee during a baseball game, can be concerning and may indicate several potential injuries. Given your description of the pain persisting for two days without improvement, it is essential to consider the possible underlying causes and appropriate management strategies.
Firstly, the area above the knee is primarily composed of the quadriceps muscle group, which is responsible for extending the knee. A kick to this area can lead to a variety of injuries, including muscle contusions (bruises), tendon injuries, or even damage to the ligaments surrounding the knee joint. The pain you are experiencing could be due to a contusion of the quadriceps muscle, which is common in sports injuries. This type of injury typically presents with localized swelling, tenderness, and pain that worsens with movement or pressure.
Additionally, if the impact was severe, it could have caused a strain or tear in the quadriceps tendon or even affected the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone. Symptoms of tendon injuries often include pain during activities that involve knee extension, such as walking, running, or climbing stairs.
Another possibility is that the impact could have affected the knee joint itself, potentially leading to a ligament injury, such as a sprain of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or the medial collateral ligament (MCL). These injuries are often accompanied by swelling, instability of the knee, and difficulty bearing weight.
Given that you have already applied ice and topical medications, which are appropriate initial treatments for managing pain and swelling, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you experience increased swelling, difficulty walking, or any instability in the knee, it would be advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional may recommend imaging studies, such as an X-ray or MRI, to assess for any fractures, ligament tears, or other significant injuries.
In the meantime, consider the following management strategies:
1. Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Allow your body time to heal.
2. Ice Therapy: Continue to apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
3. Compression: Use an elastic bandage or knee brace to provide support and minimize swelling.
4. Elevation: Keep your leg elevated above the level of your heart to help reduce swelling.
5. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage pain and inflammation.
In conclusion, while minor injuries may resolve with conservative treatment, persistent pain warrants further evaluation to rule out more serious conditions. It’s essential to listen to your body and seek professional advice if your symptoms do not improve. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and prevent long-term complications.
Similar Q&A
Understanding Knee Pain After Sports: Injury or Overexertion?
Since the summer vacation started, I've been playing basketball almost every day, and after playing, I experience some soreness below my knee, but it goes away the next day. Is this an injury to my knee joint, or is it due to not warming up and overexertion?
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: Pain below the knee is likely due to patellar tendonitis. Be cautious with activities such as squatting and jumping. Lack of warm-up and overexertion could be factors, so please pay attention to whether your activity level differs significantly from usual. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Knee Pain After Sports: Injury or Overexertion?
Understanding Pain Above the Tibia After Playing Sports: Causes and Concerns
Hello Doctor, I am 18 years old. When I went to the court to play basketball tonight, I initially felt some soreness above my knee (which I believe is the quadriceps tendon). Later, the area above my tibia became painful when bending my knee or jumping. I would like to ask you: 1...
Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics
1. The prominent area of the tibia in adolescents is often a benign condition known as Osgood–Schlatter disease. 2. The area you described seems more like patellar tendonitis, which requires moderate rest (about two weeks) followed by a gradual return to activity. Additionally,...[Read More] Understanding Pain Above the Tibia After Playing Sports: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Sports Injuries: Shoulder, Finger, and Knee Fractures Explained
Hello, doctor. I have consulted two orthopedic specialists and would like to ask a few questions. I play baseball and basketball, and I previously injured my shoulder while pitching, which was not caused by an external impact. After resting, I have no issues with daily activities...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello, Xiao Zhang: Regarding your shoulder, you should go to a medical center for a detailed examination using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to diagnose whether there is any damage to the cartilage or tendons. Typically, a finger injury from eating dried radish can recover wit...[Read More] Understanding Sports Injuries: Shoulder, Finger, and Knee Fractures Explained
Understanding Knee Pain After Sports: Causes and Solutions
My right knee usually doesn't hurt when I walk, but it does hurt after playing basketball. It is painful when I press on it. Please provide a response. Thank you.
Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics
Hello: In response to your question, it is likely that the pain you experience after playing sports is due to strain on the tendons or fascia caused by intense pulling. If the pain subsides with rest, there is no need to worry. To reduce knee pain, make sure to warm up properly b...[Read More] Understanding Knee Pain After Sports: Causes and Solutions
Related FAQ
(Orthopedics)
Knee(Surgery)
Knee Swelling(Surgery)
Toe Injury(Surgery)
Ankle Injury(Surgery)
Post-Tibial Fracture Surgery(Orthopedics)
Knee Swelling(Orthopedics)
Post-Ankle Ligament Surgery(Orthopedics)
Sports Injury(Rehabilitation)
Patellar Fracture(Orthopedics)