[18F] Experiencing pain, swelling, and discoloration behind knee

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, you may be experiencing one of the following conditions:

• Baker's Cyst: This is a fluid-filled cyst that causes a bulge and a feeling of tightness behind your knee. The pain can get worse when you fully flex or extend your knee or when you're active.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy and medication to relieve pain. In some cases, your doctor may suggest using a needle to draw the fluid out of the cyst.

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This is a blood clot in a deep vein, often in your leg. It can cause pain, swelling, warmth, and discoloration in the affected area.

  • Treatment typically involves anticoagulant medications to prevent the clot from getting bigger and to reduce your risk of getting more clots.

• Hamstring Injury: This is an injury to one of the three different hamstring muscles in the back of the thigh. The main symptom is a sudden, sharp pain at the back of the thigh.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Physical therapy and exercises to strengthen the muscles may also be recommended.

What you can do

You should seek immediate medical attention to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime, here are some things you can do:

1. Rest and elevate your leg.
2. Apply a cold pack to the area for 15 minutes at a time to help reduce swelling.
3. Avoid putting weight on the leg if it's painful.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• The pain or swelling gets worse
• You have difficulty walking or bearing weight on the leg
• You have a fever
• The leg becomes warm, red or discolored

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.