Why Can't I Bend My Knee After a Month of Recovery?

The foot cannot bend?

I had a car accident a month ago, and my knee wound is still bleeding.
The surgeon said to let it heal slowly.
Currently, I can only bend my knee slightly, about 20 degrees.
I consulted an orthopedic doctor at National Taiwan University Hospital, and he said there were no issues with my knee on the X-ray.
I wanted to get an MRI, but the doctor said it wasn't necessary based on his diagnosis.
However, it's been a month, and I still can't bend my knee.
I also saw a traditional Chinese medicine doctor, who suggested it might be a meniscus issue.
Should I continue to follow the orthopedic doctor's advice and go for rehabilitation, or should I pay out of pocket for an MRI? I don't understand why I still can't bend my knee and why they won't conduct a more detailed examination or allow me to get an MRI.

kk, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/05/01

Dr. Luo Zhongwei reply Orthopedics

Sufficient information cannot be obtained solely from written sources; a physical examination must be conducted in person to determine whether it is a meniscus issue.
You can request or discuss with your doctor whether further examinations are necessary, rather than specifying a particular test.
Additionally, the physician you consult must be an orthopedic specialist, as they have the understanding of sports injuries necessary to make an accurate diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2008/05/01

More Info

It sounds like you are going through a challenging recovery process after your car accident, and your concerns about your knee's inability to bend are completely valid. Let's break down the situation and address your questions.

Firstly, after a knee injury, especially one that involves trauma like a car accident, it is not uncommon to experience limited range of motion. The fact that you can only bend your knee to about 20 degrees after a month suggests that there may be several factors at play. These could include swelling, pain, muscle stiffness, or even the presence of scar tissue. It's important to understand that the healing process can vary significantly from person to person, and while some may regain full motion quickly, others may take longer.

The ongoing bleeding from your knee wound is also a concern. If the wound is still actively bleeding, it could be contributing to swelling and pain, which in turn can limit your ability to bend the knee. It is crucial to ensure that the wound is healing properly and that there are no underlying complications such as infection. If you notice increased redness, warmth, or discharge from the wound, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Regarding the X-ray results showing no issues, it's important to note that X-rays primarily show bone structures. They may not reveal soft tissue injuries, such as damage to ligaments, tendons, or cartilage, including the meniscus (the cartilage in your knee). If your orthopedic surgeon believes that your knee is structurally sound based on the X-ray, they may not see an immediate need for an MRI. However, if you continue to experience significant limitations in motion and pain, it would be reasonable to advocate for further imaging, such as an MRI, to rule out any soft tissue injuries.

Your mention of the traditional Chinese medicine practitioner suggesting a possible meniscus issue is worth considering. The meniscus can indeed be injured during traumatic events, and such injuries can lead to pain and restricted movement. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, it is within your rights to seek a second opinion or request further imaging to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of your knee.

As for rehabilitation, it is essential to follow through with physical therapy as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Rehabilitation can help improve your range of motion, strengthen the muscles around the knee, and reduce pain. If you are experiencing significant discomfort during therapy, communicate this with your physical therapist so they can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

In summary, while it is understandable to feel frustrated by your current limitations, it is crucial to remain patient and proactive in your recovery. Continue to follow your orthopedic surgeon's advice, engage in rehabilitation, and monitor your wound closely. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation or a second opinion. Your health and recovery are paramount, and you deserve to have your concerns addressed thoroughly.

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