[53F] With severe left knee pain and swelling post-injury

What might be happening

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

• Knee Ligament Injury: Given the trauma you described, it's possible that you may have injured one or more of the ligaments in your knee, such as the ACL, MCL, or PCL. These injuries can cause severe pain, swelling, and instability.

  • Treatment: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) are initial treatments. A doctor may recommend physical therapy, bracing, or even surgery depending on the severity.

• Meniscus Tear: The popping sound and severe pain could indicate a tear in the meniscus, which is the cartilage in your knee. This type of injury often results from twisting or direct trauma.

  • Treatment: Similar to ligament injuries, initial treatment includes RICE. A doctor may also recommend physical therapy or surgery.

• Patellar Dislocation: The swelling behind the kneecap and the inability to walk could suggest a dislocation of the patella (kneecap).

  • Treatment: Immediate medical attention is required to realign the kneecap. Follow-up care may include bracing and physical therapy.

• Contusion or Hematoma: The hard swelling and bruising could be due to a contusion (bruise) or hematoma (collection of blood) resulting from the trauma.

  • Treatment: RICE is recommended. Severe cases may require medical drainage or other interventions.

What you can do

1. Seek Medical Attention: Given the severity of your symptoms, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. They can perform a physical examination and may order imaging tests like X-rays or an MRI to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.
2. RICE Method: While waiting to see a doctor, you can try the RICE method:
   • Rest: Avoid putting weight on your knee.
   • Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
   • Compression: Use an elastic bandage to compress the area.
   • Elevation: Keep your knee elevated to reduce swelling.
3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
4. Journal Your Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share your notes with your healthcare provider. This can help in diagnosing and treating your condition more effectively.

What you should look out for

• Increased Pain or Swelling: If your pain or swelling worsens, seek medical attention immediately.
• Inability to Move the Knee: If you find it increasingly difficult to move your knee, this could indicate a more serious injury.
• Signs of Infection: If you notice redness, warmth, or pus around the swollen area, seek medical care as these could be signs of an infection.
• Numbness or Tingling: If you experience numbness or tingling in your leg or foot, this could indicate nerve involvement and requires immediate medical attention.

Remember, while this advice can help you manage your symptoms, it is not a substitute for professional medical care. Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.