[23F] Experiencing knee pain, swelling, and stiffness

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): Also known as "runner's knee," this condition is characterized by pain in the front of the knee and around the kneecap. It's often caused by imbalances in the muscles around the knee and can be exacerbated by activities that put stress on the knee joint, like bending or squatting.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve balance. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may also be recommended.

• Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee. It's more common in older adults, but can occur in younger people, especially if there's a family history.

  • Treatment usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes (like exercise and weight loss), physical therapy, and medications to manage pain and inflammation. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Meniscal Tear: The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that provides a cushion between your femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). A tear can cause pain, swelling, and a clicking or locking sensation in the knee.

  • Treatment depends on the severity and location of the tear, but may include rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

Remember, I'm an AI and not a doctor, so these are just possibilities based on the information you've provided. You should consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

In the meantime, here are some things you can try to manage your symptoms:

1. Rest: Avoid activities that make your knee pain worse.
2. Ice: Apply an ice pack to your knee for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
3. Compression: Use a knee brace or bandage to help support your knee and reduce swelling.
4. Elevation: Try to keep your knee elevated as much as possible to help reduce swelling.
5. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

What you should look out for

Here are some signs that you should seek medical attention immediately:

• Severe pain or swelling
• Inability to move or bear weight on your knee
• Significant deformity or instability of the knee
• Fever, redness, or warmth around the knee, which could indicate an infection
• Symptoms that don't improve with rest and home treatment, or that get worse over time.