[44F] With chronic left knee pain and swelling

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

• Post-Traumatic Knee Injury: Given your history of a significant knee injury caused by a fall, it's possible that you have sustained damage to the structures within your knee, such as ligaments, tendons, or cartilage. This could explain the persistent pain, swelling, and instability.

  • Treatment: Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with physical therapy. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damaged structures.

• Osteoarthritis: Chronic knee pain and swelling, especially if it worsens with activity and changes in weather, could be indicative of osteoarthritis. This condition involves the gradual wear and tear of the knee joint.

  • Treatment: Management includes pain relief medications, physical therapy, weight management, and sometimes injections or surgery.

• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint) can cause pain, swelling, and warmth.

  • Treatment: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain can help. In some cases, aspiration of the bursa or corticosteroid injections may be needed.

• Infection: Although you haven't reported fever or chills, the warmth and swelling could suggest an infection in the knee joint (septic arthritis) or surrounding tissues.

  • Treatment: This is a medical emergency and requires prompt antibiotic treatment and possibly surgical drainage.

What you can do

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

1. Rest and Protect Your Knee: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain and swelling. Use crutches or a knee brace if necessary to reduce weight-bearing on the affected leg.
2. Apply Ice: Use an ice pack on your knee for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and pain.
3. Elevate Your Leg: Keep your leg elevated above the level of your heart when resting to help reduce swelling.
4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Continue using ibuprofen or Aleve as directed to manage pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label.
5. Physical Therapy: Gentle exercises and stretches can help improve knee strength and flexibility. A physical therapist can provide a tailored exercise program.
6. Track Your Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share your notes with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention promptly if you experience any of the following:

• Increased Pain or Swelling: If your symptoms worsen or do not improve with self-care measures.
• Signs of Infection: Redness, warmth, fever, or chills, which could indicate an infection.
• Inability to Bear Weight: If you cannot put weight on your leg or if your knee feels unstable.
• Severe Pain: If the pain becomes unbearable or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Remember, while this advice can help manage your symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.