[45F] Experiencing knee pain and weakness post-fall

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your knee pain:

• Ligament Injury: Given the history of a fall and twisting injury, it's possible you may have injured one of the ligaments in your knee. The most common of these are the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the medial collateral ligament (MCL). These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and instability of the knee.

  • Treatment for ligament injuries can range from rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to physical therapy and, in severe cases, surgery.

• Meniscus Tear: The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that provides a cushion between your femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone). A meniscus tear can occur when you suddenly twist your knee while bearing weight on it. This could explain the popping sensation you've been experiencing.

  • Treatment for a meniscus tear often begins with conservative measures, such as RICE and physical therapy. If these don't help, surgery may be necessary.

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: This is a broad term used to describe pain in the front of the knee and around the kneecap (patella). It's common in people who do a lot of sport, and can be caused by overuse, injury, or problems with the alignment of the kneecap.

  • Treatment usually involves physical therapy and pain management.

What you can do

While waiting to see a healthcare provider, you can try the following to help manage your symptoms:

1. Rest your knee as much as possible.
2. Apply ice to your knee for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours.
3. Use an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen, to help manage the pain.
4. Use a knee brace or bandage to help support your knee and reduce pain.
5. Elevate your knee when you're sitting or lying down to help reduce swelling.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your knee pain is severe or worsening.
• You're unable to bear weight on your knee.
• Your knee is severely swollen.
• You have a fever, redness, or warmth around the knee, which could indicate an infection.

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, testing, and care recommendations.