[19F] Experiencing sharp and throbbing knee pain

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female competitive dancer reports experiencing sharp and throbbing pain in her left knee for the past 5 days. The pain is rated as a 7 out of 10 in severity and is exacerbated by activities such as walking and jumping. The patient notes a red area on the knee, slight swelling, and a new small bruise that was not present initially. The pain began suddenly, and there is a clicking sensation in the knee. The patient sometimes has difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg. No recent injuries, changes in dance routine, warmth around the knee, or family history of joint issues or arthritis were reported. The patient has not experienced any recent infections or illnesses and has not taken any medications that might affect joint health. No treatments or remedies have been tried yet.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possible explanations for your knee pain:

Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper's Knee): This condition is common in athletes and dancers due to repetitive stress on the knee. It can cause sharp, throbbing pain, swelling, and sometimes a clicking sensation. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, and physical therapy to strengthen the knee.
Meniscus Tear: A sudden onset of knee pain with swelling and clicking could indicate a meniscus tear, which is a common injury in activities involving twisting motions. Diagnosis usually involves a physical exam and possibly an MRI. Treatment can range from rest and physical therapy to surgery, depending on the severity.
Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (a small fluid-filled sac near the knee joint) can cause pain and swelling. This can occur from repetitive movements or pressure on the knee. Treatment often includes rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis, here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms:

Rest and Protect Your Knee: Avoid activities that worsen the pain, such as jumping or dancing, to prevent further injury.
Apply Ice: Use an ice pack on your knee for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling and pain.
Elevate Your Leg: When resting, keep your leg elevated to help reduce swelling.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Consider taking non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help manage pain and inflammation.
Use MDandMe: Track your symptoms, any changes, and your response to self-care measures. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Increased swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee
Inability to bear weight on your leg
Severe pain that does not improve with rest and self-care
Any signs of infection, such as fever or chills

Remember, while these suggestions can help manage your symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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2 mo ago

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