Knee Discomfort: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Knee issues

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing discomfort in my left knee for the past five days.
Six days ago, I hurriedly walked for about twenty minutes while pulling my luggage to catch a bus.
At that moment, I thought I would have muscle soreness the next day, but instead of the expected soreness in my calves, I felt discomfort in my entire left knee.
However, it is not painful, and the appearance is normal without redness, swelling, or heat.
The best state is in the morning right after waking up, but after a day of activity, it feels the worst in the evening.
Since yesterday, I have noticeably felt discomfort extending from a point on the outer side of my knee to about 5-10 centimeters up my thigh, with a pressing pain similar to a bruise (especially at that point of indentation).
During regular activities, it feels okay, just uncomfortable, but going down stairs is more painful.
My left calf also feels more prone to numbness, especially when taking a hot shower.
Could you please advise what this might be? Do I need to see a doctor? I don't think it's serious, and since the outpatient clinics are closed during the holiday, what should I pay attention to if I need to rest at home?

Xiao Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/11

Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics

Hello, based on your symptom description, it seems more like cartilage inflammation.
The recommended treatment approach includes applying ice for 3-5 days, using anti-inflammatory medications for 3-5 days (both oral and topical), and wearing a knee brace for 1-2 weeks.
If the pain persists, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2021/02/11

More Info

Knee discomfort can arise from various causes, and understanding the symptoms and when to seek medical help is crucial for effective management. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing discomfort in your left knee after a period of hurried walking while pulling luggage. This situation is not uncommon, especially when sudden physical exertion is involved, and it can lead to various musculoskeletal issues.

Possible Causes of Your Knee Discomfort
1. Muscle Strain: The most likely cause of your discomfort could be a muscle strain. When you hurriedly walk or run, the muscles around the knee, particularly the quadriceps and hamstrings, may become strained, leading to discomfort. This is especially true if you are not accustomed to such activity.

2. Tendonitis: Another possibility is patellar tendonitis, often referred to as "jumper's knee." This condition occurs when the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone becomes irritated or inflamed, often due to overuse or sudden increases in activity.

3. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint) can also cause discomfort. This condition can result from repetitive movements or prolonged pressure on the knee.

4. Cartilage Injury: Although less likely given the absence of swelling or significant pain, a minor injury to the cartilage (such as a meniscus tear) could also be a factor, especially if you felt a sudden discomfort during your activity.

5. Nerve Compression: The sensation of your left calf feeling more prone to numbness, especially during hot showers, could indicate some nerve involvement, possibly due to compression or irritation in the lower back or knee area.

Symptoms to Monitor
- Pain Level: You mentioned that the discomfort is not severe but is more pronounced when going down stairs. This could indicate that certain movements are aggravating the underlying issue.

- Swelling or Redness: The absence of swelling, redness, or heat is a good sign, suggesting that there may not be a significant inflammatory process at play.

- Range of Motion: If you notice a decrease in your ability to fully bend or straighten your knee, this could indicate a more serious issue that warrants further investigation.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given that your discomfort has persisted for five days and is affecting your daily activities, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional, especially if:
- The discomfort worsens or does not improve with rest.

- You experience increased swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee.

- You have difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg.

- The numbness in your calf increases or becomes more frequent.

Self-Care Recommendations
While you wait for an opportunity to see a doctor, consider the following self-care measures:
1. Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate the discomfort, particularly those involving bending or putting weight on the knee.

2. Ice Therapy: Apply ice packs to the knee for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce any potential inflammation.

3. Elevation: Elevate your leg when resting to help reduce swelling.

4. Compression: Consider using a knee brace or wrap to provide support and reduce swelling.

5. Gentle Stretching: Engage in gentle stretching exercises for the quadriceps and hamstrings to maintain flexibility without straining the knee.

Conclusion
In summary, your knee discomfort could stem from various causes, ranging from muscle strain to tendonitis. While self-care measures can be beneficial, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely and seek medical advice if they persist or worsen. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough assessment and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific condition.

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