Should You See an Orthopedic Doctor for Meniscus or Ligament Injuries?

Meniscus/Ligament Injury?

Dear Doctors,
Hello, I would like to know if I should see an orthopedic doctor for a possible meniscus/ligament injury (as described below).
I have consulted several doctors; some suggested rheumatoid issues, while others indicated potential damage to the meniscus or ligaments, and meniscal cartilage.
Is it necessary to undergo MRI or arthroscopy for further examination?
The issues with my knee are as follows:
1.
A few years ago, I fell and injured myself.
Two years ago, I began experiencing a "catching" sensation in my left knee on rainy days, accompanied by a sound.
After sitting for a long time, when I stand up, it feels like my kneecap is stuck, almost like swelling.
If I ignore it and continue walking or stretch my knee, the area where my knee locks suddenly "unlocks" with a "pop" sound, and I experience a cramping sensation that extends down to my calf.
After about five minutes, the aching pain gradually subsides.
If I forcibly "unlock" the stuck leg, I also hear a "pop," followed by aching pain, but once the pain subsides, I can walk normally.
Gradually, my right knee has started to exhibit similar symptoms.
I consulted a doctor who suggested it might be a meniscus issue, but he believed that at my age (in my twenties), I shouldn't have joint problems.
He recommended arthroscopy, but I was afraid of the pain and ultimately did not proceed.
When I visited a chiropractor, he mentioned that my spine is somewhat curved and my knees are inwardly rotated, but after a few visits, I did not return.
2.
Whenever I take a shower, my knees become red and swollen upon contact with hot water.
Initially, the swelling starts on the left side of the knee and then spreads to the right.
However, if I do not come into contact with hot water, there is no swelling.
Excessive walking also causes swelling, as does sitting or standing for too long.
Additionally, changes in weather can cause my joints to "catch," resulting in a "pop" sound when I move.
3.
I feel tightness when bending my knees.
4.
Recently, I have been experiencing a sensation of persistent swelling in my knees.
The day before a change in weather, I notice the following: if I sit with my knees crossed for too long (about half an hour), pressing on the left side of my left knee feels painful, particularly in the area that seems like "soft tissue," or above the kneecap on the left side, making me think I might have fractured a bone.
However, after stretching my leg to improve blood circulation, the pain subsides.

When I go to the movies and get up to use the restroom, I find that when I return to my seat, I need to press down on the area near my seat before sitting down; otherwise, I feel like I might lose my balance and fall.
With the changing weather, if I squat for ten minutes and then stand up, my left knee feels "locked." When I perform a leg kick, forcefully extending my leg, it feels like the left side of my left knee is stuck, and I hear a "click" sound.
Although there is pain for a few minutes, it goes away afterward.
Could you please advise me on what might be wrong with my knee? Thank you for your guidance.
Sincerely,
Muumi

muumi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/09

Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics

Hello! Based on the symptoms you described, it is evident that you have a meniscus injury in your left knee, which has also affected your patellar chondromalacia.
It is necessary to perform arthroscopic surgery for diagnosis and treatment, as MRI can only provide an examination.
I advise you to seek an experienced orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration of your condition.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2004/10/09

More Info

When it comes to knee injuries, particularly involving the meniscus or ligaments, consulting an orthopedic doctor is highly advisable. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of symptoms that could indicate underlying issues with your knee structure, such as meniscal tears or ligament injuries.
Firstly, the symptoms you describe—such as the "locking" sensation, popping sounds, and swelling—are commonly associated with meniscus tears. The meniscus acts as a cushion between your thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia), and when it is damaged, it can lead to instability and pain in the knee. The locking sensation you experience, especially when getting up after sitting for a long time, suggests that a piece of the meniscus may be getting caught in the joint, which is a classic sign of a tear.

Additionally, the swelling you notice after prolonged sitting or standing, as well as the reaction to heat, could indicate inflammation in the knee joint, which may be due to various factors, including arthritis or bursitis. The fact that your symptoms have started to affect both knees raises the possibility of a systemic issue, such as early-onset osteoarthritis or even rheumatoid arthritis, especially given the swelling and redness in response to heat.

Regarding the need for imaging studies like MRI or arthroscopy, these are essential tools in diagnosing knee injuries accurately. An MRI can provide detailed images of soft tissues, including the meniscus and ligaments, allowing the doctor to assess the extent of any damage. Arthroscopy, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows the doctor to visualize the inside of the knee joint and potentially treat any identified issues at the same time.

Given your age and the nature of your symptoms, it is crucial to take these concerns seriously. While some doctors may have downplayed the severity of your condition due to your youth, the presence of persistent symptoms warrants further investigation. Ignoring these issues could lead to long-term complications, including chronic pain and further joint degeneration.

In summary, I strongly recommend that you see an orthopedic doctor who specializes in knee injuries. They can perform a thorough physical examination, review your medical history, and determine whether imaging studies are necessary. Early intervention can significantly improve your prognosis and help you maintain an active lifestyle without the fear of long-term damage to your knee. Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel your concerns are not being adequately addressed. Your health and mobility are paramount, and addressing these symptoms now can prevent more severe issues down the line.

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