Which Medical Specialty Should My Mother See for Knee Swelling?

Q: Which Medical Specialty Should My Mother See for Knee Swelling?

Hello： Knee swelling may be related to high uric acid levels. <br>It is recommended to consult a rheumatologist. <br>Wishing you good health.

Which department should I consult?

Hello, my mother is 50 years old, and her knees swell up on their own almost every month, making it nearly impossible for her to walk normally.
Recently, she has also been experiencing intermittent cramps in her heels.
She is a homemaker and does not engage in strenuous activities.
Which department should she consult? Thank you!

Pin Xuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/11/15

Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine

Hello: Knee swelling may be related to high uric acid levels.
It is recommended to consult a rheumatologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2006/11/15

More Info

For your mother's knee swelling and associated symptoms, the most appropriate medical specialty to consult would be orthopedics. Orthopedic specialists focus on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Given that your mother is experiencing recurrent knee swelling and difficulty walking, an orthopedic evaluation is essential to determine the underlying cause of her symptoms.

Knee swelling can result from various conditions, including but not limited to:
1. Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. It is common in older adults and can lead to the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune condition that can cause inflammation in the joints, leading to swelling, pain, and stiffness. It often affects both knees symmetrically.

3. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint) can lead to swelling and pain, especially after prolonged activity or pressure on the knee.

4. Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the knee can cause pain and swelling, particularly if there is repetitive strain or overuse.

5. Meniscus Tear: A tear in the cartilage of the knee can lead to swelling, pain, and difficulty moving the joint.

6. Gout: This is a form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint, leading to sudden and severe swelling and pain.

7. Infection: Septic arthritis is a serious condition where an infection in the joint can cause swelling, pain, and fever. This requires immediate medical attention.

Given the complexity of knee conditions, it is advisable for your mother to undergo a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic specialist. The doctor will likely perform a physical examination, review her medical history, and may order imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans to assess the condition of the knee joint and surrounding structures. Blood tests may also be necessary to rule out inflammatory or autoimmune conditions.

In addition to orthopedic care, if your mother experiences symptoms such as persistent pain, fever, or redness around the knee, it may be beneficial to consult a rheumatologist, especially if an autoimmune condition is suspected.
In the meantime, managing her symptoms is crucial. Encourage her to rest the affected knee, apply ice to reduce swelling, and elevate her leg when possible. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication, especially if she has any underlying health conditions or is taking other medications.

In summary, an orthopedic specialist is the best choice for evaluating your mother's knee swelling and associated symptoms. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve her quality of life and mobility.

Similar Q&A

Managing Knee Swelling: Is Joint Replacement the Only Solution?

Hello, Doctor! My mother is 62 years old, and her knee has been swollen and deformed for almost two years, which severely affects her ability to walk and prevents her from standing for long periods. She has seen an orthopedic specialist who recommended a knee replacement, but she...

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and recommendations: 1. If your knee is deformed and affecting your ability to walk, it is generally advisable to undergo surgery followed by rehabilitation. This is because not having surgery, in addition to causin...

Understanding Knee Effusion: Causes, Treatments, and Next Steps

Hello Doctor: My mother is currently 78 years old. A few months ago, she fell and sustained a minor injury to her right knee, but there were no abnormalities in the bones, so we did not take her to the hospital for examination. However, starting last month, she mentioned that her...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
The swelling in the bursa in front of the kneecap is likely due to trauma, and aspiration may need to be performed multiple times to reduce the swelling. If it does not improve, surgery may be necessary. You can take your mother to see another physician for further evaluation.

Understanding Knee Pain and Swelling: Treatment Options Beyond Surgery

My mother's left knee has been swollen and painful for the past six months. We took her to a teaching hospital where the orthopedic doctor suggested a knee replacement, which scared her. Last week, she was unable to walk due to the pain, so we went to another teaching hospit...

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions: 1. Regarding knee osteoarthritis, commonly known as bone spurs, whether to undergo surgery or physical therapy depends on the symptoms: A. The severity o...

Managing Knee Pain: Tips for Supporting Your Active Parent

Hello, doctor! My mother is 66 years old. A few years ago, she experienced swelling and pain in both knees. After several months of rehabilitation, the doctor recommended taking glucosamine, which she has been taking for a long time. Her condition improved, and she has been walki...

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my suggestions in response to your question: 1. Regarding medications, in addition to Fuzhengmei, you may consider supplementation with Glucosamine and Chondroitin. 2. Start with stretching exercises for the legs, using a forward lung...