Knee Swelling and Limited Mobility After Injury - Orthopedics

More Info

---

Hello! It sounds like you’ve been through quite a challenging time with your knee injury, and I understand your concerns about the swelling, limited mobility, and potential for further damage. Let’s break down your situation and discuss the implications of your injury, possible treatments, and recovery expectations.

From your description, it seems you’ve experienced a significant knee injury while playing basketball, which has led to swelling, pain, and difficulty with mobility. The fact that you initially had X-rays and ultrasound that showed no bone injury is a positive sign, but it doesn’t rule out soft tissue injuries, such as ligament or cartilage damage. The presence of bruising (hematoma) indicates that there was some bleeding in the area, which can occur with soft tissue injuries.

When it comes to knee injuries, the knee joint is indeed complex, consisting of bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. The symptoms you’re experiencing—swelling, pain when bending, and difficulty with lateral movements—could suggest issues with the ligaments (such as the ACL or MCL) or the cartilage (such as a meniscus tear). The fact that you’ve had multiple injuries while performing lateral movements raises the concern that there may be underlying instability in the knee joint.

Regarding your question about the timing of surgery if there is a ligament tear or cartilage damage, it’s essential to understand that there is often a "golden window" for surgical intervention. For ligament injuries, particularly the ACL, surgery is typically recommended within a few weeks of the injury, especially if there is significant instability. Delaying surgery can lead to further joint damage and complications, such as arthritis. For cartilage injuries, the timing can vary based on the extent of the damage and the specific type of injury. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove damaged cartilage, while in others, conservative management may be sufficient.

As you await your MRI results, it’s crucial to manage your symptoms effectively. Continue with ice therapy to reduce swelling and pain, and follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding medication. If you find that your knee is not improving or if your pain worsens, it’s essential to communicate this with your healthcare provider. They may consider early intervention based on your symptoms and MRI findings.

In the meantime, avoid activities that exacerbate your pain, particularly those involving lateral movements or sudden changes in direction. Gentle range-of-motion exercises can be beneficial, but they should be done cautiously and within a pain-free range. Physical therapy may also be recommended once you have a clearer understanding of the injury, as it can help strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve stability.

Lastly, while waiting for your follow-up appointment, keep a close eye on your symptoms. If you experience increased swelling, severe pain, or any signs of infection (such as fever or redness), seek medical attention promptly. It’s understandable to feel anxious about your recovery, but staying proactive and informed will help you navigate this process.

I hope this information helps clarify your situation and provides some reassurance as you await your follow-up appointment. Take care, and best wishes for a smooth recovery!