Knee Ligament Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention - Orthopedics

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Knee ligament injuries, particularly those involving the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the medial collateral ligament (MCL), are common in sports activities, especially in high-impact sports like basketball. Your experience of being hit on the outer side of your knee during a game, followed by significant pain and difficulty walking, raises valid concerns about potential ligament damage.
Given that you were initially told there were no bone injuries and advised to rest for a month, it is concerning that you are still experiencing pain and limitations in movement two months later. The symptoms you describe—difficulty squatting, pain during certain movements, and a feeling of soreness—suggest that there may be underlying issues that need further evaluation.


When to Seek Medical Attention
1. Persistent Pain: If you are experiencing ongoing pain that does not improve with rest and conservative treatment (like ice, elevation, and over-the-counter pain relief), it is advisable to seek medical attention. Persistent pain can indicate that there is more than just a soft tissue injury.

2. Limited Range of Motion: The inability to fully squat or perform certain movements without pain can be a sign of ligamentous instability or other injuries, such as meniscal tears. This limitation warrants further investigation.

3. Swelling or Instability: If your knee is swollen or feels unstable (like it might give way), these are red flags that suggest a more serious injury, such as a ligament tear.

4. Changes in Symptoms: If your symptoms worsen or change, such as increased pain, swelling, or a feeling of instability, you should consult a healthcare professional.


Recommended Actions
- Revisit a Specialist: Given your ongoing symptoms, it would be prudent to see an orthopedic specialist who can perform a thorough evaluation of your knee. This may include a physical examination and imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess for any ligament tears, meniscal injuries, or other soft tissue damage.

- Physical Therapy: If you haven't already, consider engaging in physical therapy. A physical therapist can provide targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles around your knee, improve stability, and enhance your range of motion. They can also guide you on how to perform movements safely to avoid further injury.

- Rest and Modify Activities: While you may be eager to return to sports, it's essential to allow your knee to heal properly. Avoid activities that exacerbate your pain, and consider modifying your training regimen to include low-impact exercises that do not stress the knee.

- Use of Supportive Devices: Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor may recommend using a knee brace for additional support during activities. This can help stabilize the knee and prevent further injury.


Conclusion
In summary, your ongoing symptoms of pain and limited mobility after a knee injury are significant and warrant further medical evaluation. It is essential to address these issues promptly to prevent long-term complications, such as chronic pain or instability. Seeking a second opinion from an orthopedic specialist and engaging in a structured rehabilitation program can help you recover effectively and return to your desired activities safely. Remember, early intervention is key in managing knee injuries effectively.