Pain Behind the Knee After a Fall: Causes and Solutions

Pain behind the knee after a fall?

I would like to ask the doctor, after falling in mid-December last year, my knee was completely unable to bend and was very painful.
I went to a traditional Chinese medicine clinic for a week, and it improved a lot, allowing me to bend it normally.
I stopped going to the clinic and only used medicated patches on the back of my knee at home.
Now, when I squat down, my heels lift up, and I experience pain in the popliteal area when bearing weight on my knees.
However, I don't feel much pain when doing a deep squat.
Due to my work, I often need to squat down, and this issue has not improved for over two months.
Can this problem be resolved?

Mr. Yang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/08

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello, this is likely due to a muscle injury at the junction of the calf muscles on the posterior side.
The discomfort may increase due to the continuous force required when raising the heel.
It is recommended to apply heat therapy.
If there is no improvement, please visit an orthopedic clinic to check for any damage to deeper structures, such as the posterior meniscus.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Wang Shou-ji.

Reply Date: 2022/03/08

More Info

Experiencing pain behind the knee after a fall can be quite concerning, especially if the pain persists for an extended period. Based on your description, it seems that you initially suffered a significant injury to your knee, which has led to ongoing discomfort, particularly when squatting or bearing weight. Let's explore the potential causes of your pain and discuss some strategies for relief and recovery.

Potential Causes of Pain Behind the Knee
1. Soft Tissue Injury: After a fall, it is common to sustain soft tissue injuries, including strains or sprains of the muscles, tendons, or ligaments around the knee. The pain you feel when squatting may be due to overloading these structures, especially if they are still healing.

2. Baker's Cyst: A Baker's cyst, which is a fluid-filled sac behind the knee, can develop due to swelling from an injury or arthritis. This can cause discomfort, particularly when bending the knee or applying pressure.

3. Meniscus Injury: The meniscus is a cartilage structure in the knee that can be torn during a fall. Symptoms of a meniscus tear can include pain, swelling, and difficulty bending or straightening the knee.

4. Ligament Injuries: Injuries to the ligaments, such as the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) or the medial collateral ligament (MCL), can also lead to pain behind the knee. These injuries may not always be apparent immediately after the incident.

5. Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the knee, such as the hamstring tendons, can also cause pain, particularly during activities that involve bending or squatting.

Management and Treatment Options
1. Rest and Activity Modification: It is crucial to allow your knee to rest, especially if certain movements exacerbate the pain. Avoid activities that require deep bending or heavy lifting until the pain subsides.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Aim for 15-20 minutes of ice therapy several times a day, especially after activities that aggravate your symptoms.

3. Compression and Elevation: Using a compression bandage can help manage swelling. Elevating your leg when resting can also assist in reducing inflammation.

4. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a structured physical therapy program can be beneficial. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and promote healing.

5. Pain Relief Medications: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation. However, if you have allergies or contraindications to these medications, consult your healthcare provider for alternatives.

6. Gradual Return to Activity: Once the pain begins to improve, gradually reintroduce activities. Start with low-impact exercises and slowly increase intensity as tolerated.

7. Consultation with a Specialist: If your symptoms do not improve with conservative management, it may be necessary to consult an orthopedic specialist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, possibly including imaging studies like an MRI, to assess for any underlying injuries that may require more specific treatment.

Conclusion
In summary, while it is possible for your knee pain to improve with appropriate management, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the pain persists or worsens, seeking professional medical advice is crucial to rule out any serious injuries. With the right approach, many individuals can recover from knee injuries and return to their normal activities. Remember to listen to your body and prioritize your recovery to ensure long-term health and function.

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