Sudden Knee Numbness and Pain: When to Seek Help

Q: Sudden Knee Numbness and Pain: When to Seek Help

Hello： Based on your description, it may be necessary to consider spinal-related diseases. <br>Excessive force during lumbar spine rotation and other external factors may lead to lumbar instability, spondylolisthesis, and lumbar disc herniation. <br>When lumbar nerve root patholo

Numbness and pain in the knee without an apparent cause?

Hello Doctor: Since noon today, I suddenly felt numbness and slight swelling pain in my right knee.
When I touch it, there is no swelling or other external injuries, but the sensation when touching the knee feels very strange.
Additionally, I have a problem with high cholesterol; could this be related to the numbness in my knee? Do I need to go to the hospital for an examination? Given the severe pandemic situation...
If I need to go to the hospital, which department should I visit? Or what methods can I use to alleviate the symptoms? I would greatly appreciate your guidance.
Thank you very much!

Ms. Li, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/05

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: Based on your description, it may be necessary to consider spinal-related diseases.
Excessive force during lumbar spine rotation and other external factors may lead to lumbar instability, spondylolisthesis, and lumbar disc herniation.
When lumbar nerve root pathology occurs, typical discomfort symptoms include pain radiating from the buttocks down to the legs, as well as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the toes.

Treatment can be divided into pharmacological therapy: When nerves are compressed, an inflammatory response occurs, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used for treatment, as they have both anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which can reduce the inflammatory response and alleviate pain.
Physical therapy includes:
1.
Heat therapy: Primarily increases local blood circulation and improves muscle ischemia.
2.
Shortwave and ultrasound therapy: Mainly promotes blood circulation in deeper tissues.
3.
Spinal traction: Commonly used for degenerative joint disease of the cervical or lumbar spine, herniated discs (bone spurs), and cases with nerve root compression, as well as spinal injuries without fractures or joint instability.
Traction can be utilized for rehabilitation, but prior X-ray examination is necessary to confirm joint stability.
However, if the numbness of the nerves rapidly extends upwards, acute demyelinating polyneuropathy may need to be considered, which is a neurological emergency.
Immediate medical attention in the emergency department is required.
I recommend that you consult with a neurologist or a rehabilitation physician to discuss examinations and treatment, which typically include X-rays, nerve conduction studies, and blood tests.
However, due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, please ensure to implement self-protection measures and maintain cleanliness and disinfection before and after seeking medical care.
Wishing you good health and safety.

Dr.
Jiang, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/06/05

More Info

Sudden knee numbness and pain can be concerning, especially when it occurs unexpectedly. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a combination of numbness and mild swelling in your right knee, without any visible signs of trauma or injury. This situation can arise from various underlying causes, and it is essential to understand when to seek medical attention.

Possible Causes of Knee Numbness and Pain
1. Nerve Compression or Irritation: Conditions such as a herniated disc in the lumbar spine can lead to nerve compression, which may cause symptoms in the knee. This is often accompanied by pain that radiates down the leg.

2. Circulatory Issues: Given your history of high cholesterol, there is a possibility that vascular issues could be contributing to your symptoms. Poor circulation can lead to numbness and pain in the extremities.

3. Musculoskeletal Issues: Conditions such as patellar tendinitis, bursitis, or even arthritis can cause localized pain and discomfort in the knee. These conditions can sometimes lead to referred sensations of numbness.

4. Injury: Although you mentioned no visible signs of injury, it is still possible to have sustained a minor injury that may not be immediately apparent.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given that your symptoms are sudden and involve numbness, it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially if:
- The numbness persists or worsens.

- You experience significant swelling or redness.

- You have difficulty moving the knee or bearing weight on it.

- You notice any changes in bowel or bladder function, which could indicate a more serious condition.

Recommended Medical Specialties
If you decide to seek medical help, consider visiting one of the following specialties:
- Orthopedics: They specialize in musculoskeletal issues and can evaluate any structural problems with your knee.

- Neurology: If nerve involvement is suspected, a neurologist can assess nerve function and determine if there is any compression or damage.

- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R): This specialty focuses on restoring function and can provide rehabilitation strategies for your knee.

Home Management Strategies
While waiting for your appointment or if your symptoms are mild, you can try the following home management strategies:
- Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate your symptoms.

- Ice Therapy: Apply ice to the knee for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling and numbness.

- Elevation: Keep your knee elevated to help decrease swelling.

- Compression: Use a knee brace or wrap to provide support and reduce swelling.

- Gentle Stretching: If comfortable, gentle stretching of the leg muscles may help alleviate some discomfort.

Conclusion
In summary, sudden knee numbness and pain can stem from various causes, and while some may resolve on their own, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. Given your history of high cholesterol, it is wise to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any serious underlying conditions. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical attention promptly. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

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