Knee Pain After a Fall: Possible Injuries and Recovery

Knee pain after a fall?

Hello Doctor, last week I fell at home and injured my left knee and right zygomatic bone.
After a week, the zygomatic bone has almost healed, and the pain when pressed is not significant anymore.
However, my knee is extremely painful even with light touch, to the point where I look down to check for bleeding.
When I touch it, it feels like there is a dent.
The right knee feels normal and does not have any indentation.
Could this condition indicate a bone injury? I can walk normally without any issues.

Miss Yang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/03

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! Based on your description, it is recommended that you visit an orthopedic outpatient clinic for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2021/12/03

More Info

Knee pain following a fall can be concerning, especially when accompanied by significant tenderness and the sensation of a depression in the knee area. Based on your description, it seems that while your cheekbone is healing well, your knee is still experiencing considerable pain and sensitivity to touch. This situation raises several possibilities regarding the nature of your injury.

Firstly, the fact that you can walk normally is a positive sign, suggesting that there may not be a severe structural injury, such as a fracture or dislocation. However, the intense pain upon touch and the feeling of a depression could indicate a few potential issues:
1. Soft Tissue Injury: It's possible that you have sustained a contusion (bruise) or a strain to the muscles, tendons, or ligaments surrounding the knee. Such injuries can cause localized swelling and tenderness, which might explain the pain you are experiencing when you touch the area.

2. Bursitis: The knee contains several bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between tissues) that can become inflamed after trauma. This inflammation can lead to pain and tenderness, especially when pressure is applied.

3. Cartilage Damage: The knee joint is cushioned by cartilage, and a fall could potentially cause a tear in the cartilage (such as a meniscus tear). This type of injury might not always present with immediate swelling or instability but can lead to pain, especially with certain movements or pressure.

4. Bone Bruise: A bone bruise occurs when there is trauma to the bone, leading to bleeding and swelling within the bone tissue. This can be quite painful and may not be visible on an X-ray, as X-rays primarily show fractures rather than soft tissue or bone bruises.

5. Fracture: Although you mentioned that you can walk normally, it is still possible to have a minor fracture that does not significantly impair mobility. If there is a fracture, it may not always be visible on initial imaging, especially if it is a hairline fracture.

Given these possibilities, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the pain persists, worsens, or if you notice swelling, bruising, or difficulty moving the knee, it would be advisable to seek further medical evaluation. An MRI or a CT scan may be warranted to assess for any soft tissue injuries or subtle fractures that might not be visible on an X-ray.

In the meantime, here are some recommendations for managing your knee pain:
- Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, particularly those that involve bending or putting pressure on the knee.

- Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and pain.

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

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

- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they worsen, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough examination and appropriate imaging studies. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and facilitate a smoother recovery process.

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