Knee Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention After a Fall

Knee injury from a fall?

Hello, Doctor: About a month ago, I fell while rushing at the train station and landed on my knees (the right knee was injured more severely).
Although it was painful at the time, I was able to stand up without difficulty and have been able to walk freely since then.
Immediately after the injury, I applied ice and elevated my knees, used topical medication, and rested for a month.
During this month, I have had no issues with walking or sitting, but I do experience pain when the injured area is touched or under load.
Currently, the bruising has disappeared, but there is still a swollen bump on the right knee (no bruising, just swelling), approximately around the patella.
The right knee is painful when bearing weight or under pressure, but walking and sitting remain unaffected.
Generally, if I do not apply pressure to the swollen area on the right knee, I do not feel any pain.
I would like to know if this condition is part of the healing process or if I need to seek medical attention immediately.
If it is part of the healing process, how long might it take to fully recover? If I need to see a doctor right away, should I go to orthopedics or rehabilitation? Can topical medication facilitate self-healing? Thank you for your time and response!

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/06

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

This is the healing process after a bruise.
The affected area will be swollen and painful, but it will gradually subside over two to three months.
If the condition improves, there is no need to see a doctor.

Reply Date: 2023/02/06

More Info

When it comes to knee injuries, especially after a fall, understanding when to seek medical attention is crucial for proper recovery. Based on your description, it seems you experienced a significant impact to your right knee, which has led to swelling and pain in a specific area. While you have been able to walk and perform daily activities without much trouble, the persistent swelling and localized pain upon pressure are important indicators that should not be overlooked.

Firstly, it is essential to recognize that swelling in the knee can be a sign of underlying issues, such as ligament injuries, meniscus tears, or even bone contusions that may not be immediately apparent. The fact that you experienced a significant impact during your fall raises the possibility of such injuries. Although you mentioned that the bruising has subsided, the presence of a lump or swelling at the site of impact suggests that there may still be inflammation or fluid accumulation in the knee joint.

In general, if you experience persistent swelling, pain, or any changes in your knee's range of motion, it is advisable to seek medical attention. In your case, since the swelling has not resolved and you are experiencing pain when applying pressure, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. A visit to an orthopedic specialist would be appropriate, as they can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or ultrasound, to assess the internal structures of the knee.

Regarding your question about whether this condition is part of the healing process, it is possible that the swelling is a normal response to the injury. However, the duration and nature of the swelling can vary significantly depending on the severity of the injury. Typically, soft tissue injuries can take several weeks to heal, but if there is a more serious underlying issue, such as a ligament tear or meniscus injury, the healing process may be prolonged.

As for your inquiry about self-treatment with topical medications, while these can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation, they are unlikely to address any underlying structural issues. Therefore, relying solely on topical treatments without professional evaluation may not be sufficient for complete recovery.

In summary, given your symptoms of persistent swelling and localized pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. An orthopedic specialist will be able to provide a comprehensive evaluation and determine the best course of action for your recovery. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and facilitate a more effective healing process. If you have any concerns about your knee's condition, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these issues sooner rather than later can lead to a better outcome.

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