[41M] Long-term knee pain with complications

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

• Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain, swelling, and a crunching feeling. It's common in people who have had previous injuries to the joint, like an ACL tear. The warmth you're feeling in your knee could be due to inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.

  • Treatment typically involves pain management with over-the-counter or prescription medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

• Post-traumatic arthritis: This is a form of osteoarthritis that develops after an injury, like an ACL tear. It can cause similar symptoms to osteoarthritis.

  • Treatment is similar to that of osteoarthritis.

• Chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS): This is a rare condition that can cause severe, burning pain, usually in an arm, leg, hand, or foot. It often develops after an injury. The fact that your pain is spreading could suggest CRPS.

  • Treatment typically involves medications, physical therapy, and psychological therapy.

• Nerve damage: The burning pain and the fact that it's spreading could suggest some form of nerve damage or neuropathy. This could be due to a variety of causes, including your previous injury, diabetes, or other conditions.

  • Treatment typically involves managing the underlying cause and medications to manage the pain.

What you can do

You should definitely see a doctor about your symptoms. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, here are a few things you can do:

1. Rest your knee as much as possible and avoid activities that make your symptoms worse.
2. Apply a cold pack to your knee for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, to help reduce inflammation and pain.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can help manage your pain. However, you should check with your doctor before starting any new medications, given your other health conditions and current medications.
4. Gentle exercises and physical therapy can help strengthen your knee and improve your symptoms. However, you should only start this under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

What you should look out for

Here are a few signs that you should seek medical attention immediately:

• If your pain becomes severe or unbearable
• If you notice any significant swelling, redness, or warmth around your knee
• If you develop a fever or other signs of infection
• If you notice any changes in your ability to move or use your knee

Remember, I'm an AI and not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.