Managing Right Knee Swelling: Recovery Tips and Exercise Guidance

Swelling in the right knee with inability to fully extend?

Hello, doctor.
Last August, I injured my right knee while playing basketball too vigorously without warming up and without wearing knee pads, which led to swelling at the lower edge of my knee and an inability to straighten it.
I went to the hospital, and the doctor said it seemed like a bursitis injury, and it would take at least three months to recover.
He also advised me to lose weight (I am 183 cm tall and weigh 90 kg), as a lighter weight would improve my recovery.
During that period, I sometimes experienced pain on the left side of my right knee when preparing to sleep, which would last for about ten minutes before I could sleep comfortably.
It has been over a year since the injury, and my condition has improved (the soreness is gone), but sometimes if I eat too much, the next day I find it difficult to straighten my leg, and the situation can worsen.
However, if I control my diet, the condition improves, but I still have a discrepancy in leg length (the left leg is normal, while the right leg is shorter).
Additionally, my right knee makes a "clicking" sound when I try to straighten it.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Does soaking in hot springs have any therapeutic effects? 2.
Does swimming have rehabilitative benefits? 3.
If I need to engage in vigorous exercise (like military training), what are the worst-case scenarios for my condition worsening? I don't want to be discharged from the military halfway through the process, as the discharge procedure takes 3 to 4 months, during which I can't do anything.
If the discharge is unsuccessful, I would have to continue serving, which is very time-consuming! 4.
I am scheduled to enlist in the military in February next year.
What types of exercises can I do for rehabilitation, or should I primarily focus on controlling my diet at this stage? Thank you, doctor.

Kuai Dang Bing De Ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/11/12

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

1.
Soaking in hot springs may be effective.

2.
Swimming can also be beneficial.

3.
Engaging in strenuous exercise may cause more pain or worsen the condition.

4.
Consult a rehabilitation physician for guidance on rehabilitation exercises.

5.
It is advisable to see a doctor for a detailed examination to identify the underlying cause.

Reply Date: 2006/11/12

More Info

Managing knee swelling and recovery after an injury, especially one sustained during sports, can be a complex process that requires a combination of proper rehabilitation exercises, lifestyle modifications, and sometimes medical intervention. Based on your description, it seems you have been dealing with knee issues for over a year, primarily related to swelling and discomfort after playing basketball. Here are some insights and recommendations regarding your situation.

1. Therapeutic Benefits of Hot Springs
Soaking in hot springs can provide temporary relief for knee pain and swelling. The heat can help improve blood circulation, relax muscles, and alleviate stiffness in the joints. However, it is essential to ensure that the water temperature is comfortable and not too hot, as excessive heat can sometimes exacerbate inflammation. If you find that soaking in hot springs helps relieve your symptoms, it can be a beneficial adjunct to your recovery routine.

2. Swimming as Rehabilitation
Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise that can aid in rehabilitation. It allows you to engage in physical activity without putting excessive stress on your knee joints. The buoyancy of the water reduces the load on your knees, making it easier to perform movements that might be painful on land. Swimming can help strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and enhance overall cardiovascular fitness. Incorporating swimming into your routine could be very beneficial, especially if you are cautious about high-impact activities.

3. Risks of Intense Physical Activity
Engaging in intense physical activities, such as military training, without proper rehabilitation can lead to further injury. If your knee is not adequately healed, you risk exacerbating the condition, which could lead to chronic pain, instability, or even the need for surgical intervention. The worst-case scenario could involve significant damage to the knee structures, such as ligaments or cartilage, which may require a lengthy recovery period and could potentially affect your ability to serve in the military.

4. Exercise Recommendations and Weight Management
Given your situation, focusing on weight management is crucial. Reducing excess weight can significantly decrease the stress on your knees, potentially alleviating pain and improving function. In addition to dietary control, consider incorporating low-impact exercises that promote weight loss and strengthen the muscles around your knee. Here are some suggestions:
- Cycling: Stationary or outdoor cycling can help improve knee strength and flexibility without putting too much strain on the joint.

- Water Aerobics: Similar to swimming, water aerobics provides resistance training while minimizing impact on the knees.

- Strength Training: Focus on strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles. Exercises like leg lifts, wall sits, and gentle squats (if tolerated) can be beneficial.

- Stretching: Regular stretching of the hamstrings, quadriceps, and calf muscles can improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.

Conclusion
In summary, managing your knee condition involves a multifaceted approach that includes rehabilitation exercises, weight management, and careful consideration of physical activities. While hot springs and swimming can provide therapeutic benefits, it is crucial to avoid high-impact activities that could worsen your condition. Prioritize gentle exercises that strengthen your knee and consult with a physical therapist for a tailored rehabilitation program. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking further medical evaluation is essential to prevent long-term complications.

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