Knee Injury Recovery: Itching and Sensation Issues Explained

Car accident injuries

I had a car accident at the end of March, resulting in a laceration on my right knee that required two layers of stitches: six internal stitches and seventeen external stitches.
I have now fully recovered, but I would like to ask why the skin around the scar itches but I don't feel it? Additionally, my knee has a constant warm sensation, and when I bend it, I feel a clicking sensation in the bones.
I have had an X-ray, and the bones are fine; the only issue is the laceration, which measures 7x3x1 cm.

CYJ, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/25

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello, the superficial sensory nerve network of the skin can also be damaged due to external injuries, which may lead to decreased sensation; however, this is mostly temporary and will gradually recover without causing significant impact.
The sensation of heat is likely due to aseptic inflammation, and the feeling of joint stiffness may also occur, but it will alleviate with increased activity.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Wang Shou-ji.

Reply Date: 2022/05/25

More Info

It's great to hear that you have fully recovered from your knee injury after the accident. However, the symptoms you are experiencing, such as itching around the scar, lack of sensation, and a warm feeling in the knee, are not uncommon after such injuries and surgeries. Let’s break down these issues based on your description.

Itching and Sensation Issues
1. Itching: Itching around a scar is a common phenomenon. This can be attributed to several factors:
- Nerve Regeneration: After an injury, the nerves in the area may take time to heal and regenerate. As they heal, they can sometimes cause sensations of itching or tingling. This is a normal part of the healing process.

- Scar Tissue Formation: The formation of scar tissue can also lead to itching. Scar tissue is different from normal skin and can affect how the skin feels. The skin may become more sensitive or reactive in the area of the scar.

- Dry Skin: Sometimes, the skin around a scar can become dry, leading to itching. Keeping the area moisturized can help alleviate this symptom.

2. Lack of Sensation: The absence of sensation around the scar can be due to nerve damage or disruption during the injury or surgical repair. This is often temporary, but in some cases, it can take a long time for normal sensation to return. If the nerves were significantly affected, it might take longer for them to regenerate and for sensation to return to normal.

3. Warm Sensation: The feeling of warmth in the knee can be due to several reasons:
- Inflammation: After an injury, inflammation is a natural response of the body. Even after the initial healing phase, some residual inflammation can persist, leading to a feeling of warmth.

- Increased Blood Flow: The body increases blood flow to an injured area to promote healing, which can also result in a warm sensation.

- Post-Surgical Changes: If you had surgery, the body may still be adjusting to the changes made during the procedure, which can lead to sensations of warmth.

Mechanical Sensation (Bone "Catching")
The sensation of your knee feeling "catchy" or "sticking" when bending could be related to several factors:
- Scar Tissue: Scar tissue can sometimes form in a way that restricts movement or causes a sensation of catching. This is particularly true if the scar tissue is located near the joint or if it has formed around tendons or ligaments.

- Joint Mechanics: Sometimes, the mechanics of the knee joint can change after an injury or surgery. If the alignment of the bones or the soft tissues around the knee has changed, it can lead to unusual sensations during movement.

- Muscle Weakness or Imbalance: After an injury, the muscles around the knee may weaken or become imbalanced, which can affect how the knee moves and feels during bending.

Recommendations
1. Consult Your Doctor: Since you have already had X-rays that show no bone issues, it may be beneficial to discuss these symptoms with your orthopedic surgeon or a physical therapist. They can assess your knee's range of motion and function and determine if further evaluation or treatment is needed.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help address any mechanical issues and improve strength and flexibility in the knee. A therapist can provide exercises tailored to your needs, which may help alleviate the "catching" sensation.

3. Scar Management: Consider using silicone gel sheets or topical treatments designed for scar management. These can help improve the appearance of scars and may reduce itching.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If the itching, warmth, or catching sensation worsens or if you develop new symptoms (like swelling or increased pain), it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.

In summary, while the sensations you are experiencing are common after a knee injury and surgery, they should be monitored. Engaging with healthcare professionals for tailored advice and treatment can significantly aid your recovery and improve your knee function.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Knee Pain After Injury: Causes and Recovery Tips

Six months ago, I had a motorcycle accident. The external injuries have healed, but my knee still feels sharp pain when I bump it lightly or hit it. If I hit it harder, the pain becomes unbearable. Climbing stairs, walking too much, or standing for too long causes a tingling and ...

Dr. Li Yanheng reply Rehabilitation
It may be that the internal bones or ligaments of the knee have not healed; consider scheduling an appointment with a rehabilitation specialist for an MRI examination.

Post-Total Knee Replacement: Addressing Bruising and Itching Concerns

I am 35 years old and a patient with rheumatoid arthritis. I have two questions: 1. I had a total knee replacement one month ago. When I was discharged from the hospital, my left leg was bruised and stiff. It has slightly improved since then, but there is still some bruising. W...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
After knee replacement surgery, there is usually a bit of bruising, and stiffness may take some time to improve, but this will not affect future recovery. The skin may itch post-surgery, possibly due to dryness; applying a little lotion can help prevent this. Additionally, itchin...

Understanding Knee Itching: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Recently, my right knee has been experiencing mild soreness, but it doesn't affect my daily life. Now, it has turned into a tingling and itchy sensation. When I touch it, it feels different from my left knee; the surface of my right knee feels a bit soft, and I can't di...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Typically, inflammation of the adjacent ligaments or synovitis can be treated with rest or medication, and it usually resolves on its own.

Understanding Knee Sensory Loss: Causes and When to Seek Neurology Help

Hello, doctor. I have been doing aerial yoga once a week and occasionally engaging in light aerobic exercises without any impact or falls that could injure my knees. One day, I started to feel a tingling sensation in my knee, similar to being numbed, and it felt like a lump when ...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Dear Ms. Tsao, You mentioned that "there is a sensation of numbness and a desire for anesthesia." This is a typical symptom of peripheral nerve injury. The statement "there is pain when pressing on the inner side of the knee" indicates localized tissue inflam...