Gout or Sports Injury? Knee Pain Symptoms

Is it gout or a sports injury?

Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
I am a gout patient, and usually, my attacks occur in my ankle.
However, this time, I am experiencing pain in my right knee.
The day before, I had to climb many flights of stairs at work (the highest being ten floors and the lowest being one floor below ground) to sign some documents.
The next day at work, my knee felt uncomfortable; I couldn't fully extend it or bend it too much, but I was still able to walk.
However, by the evening, I woke up in severe pain, making it almost impossible to move.
Even hopping on one foot was not feasible.
It feels somewhat like my previous gout symptoms, but now it’s in my right knee.
I would like to ask Dr.
Hsu, based on these symptoms, is this gout or a sports injury? What should I do?

Guanfu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/22

Dr. Xu Zhaoren reply Orthopedics

You are climbing stairs all day long, which may indicate patellar tendinitis, also known as jumper's knee.
You should visit a clinic for examination and treatment.

Reply Date: 2005/04/22

More Info

Hello! Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing significant knee pain, and you are concerned about whether this is related to gout or a sports injury. Given your history as a gout patient, it is essential to consider both possibilities.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. It typically presents with sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling, often affecting the big toe but can also involve other joints, including the knees. The pain from gout usually comes on suddenly and can be excruciating, often waking individuals from sleep. The affected joint may feel warm to the touch and appear swollen.

On the other hand, a sports injury, particularly one involving the knee, can result from overuse, strain, or trauma. Given that you mentioned climbing many flights of stairs the day before your knee pain began, it is possible that you may have strained the muscles or ligaments around the knee. Symptoms of a sports injury may include localized pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the joint, which aligns with what you are experiencing.

To differentiate between gout and a sports injury, consider the following:
1. Onset of Pain: Gout typically has a rapid onset, while sports injuries may develop gradually or after a specific activity.

2. Location of Pain: Gout usually affects the joint itself, while a sports injury may involve surrounding tissues.

3. Swelling and Redness: Gout often presents with significant swelling and redness, while a sports injury may show swelling but not necessarily redness.

4. Response to Movement: If moving the knee exacerbates the pain significantly, it may suggest a sports injury. Gout pain can also be aggravated by movement but is often more intense at rest.

Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to take the following steps:
1. Rest: Avoid putting weight on the affected knee to prevent further injury.

2. Ice: Apply ice to the knee for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling and pain.

3. Elevation: Keep the knee elevated to help reduce swelling.

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help alleviate pain and inflammation, but consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially considering your gout history.

5. Hydration: Ensure you are well-hydrated, as dehydration can exacerbate gout symptoms.

If the pain persists or worsens, or if you experience symptoms such as fever, significant swelling, or inability to move the knee, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination, and possibly imaging studies like an X-ray or MRI, to determine the exact cause of your knee pain. They may also conduct blood tests to check uric acid levels to confirm or rule out gout.

In conclusion, while both gout and sports injuries can cause knee pain, the specific characteristics of your symptoms and their onset can help guide the diagnosis. Given your history of gout, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely and consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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