Top Signs You Need Knee Injury Treatment

No matter how fit or strong you are, a knee injury can put you out of commission. Whether it is due to a sports mishap, a bad fall at work, or landing the wrong way while running down the stairs, it can derail your routine in an instant.

Recognizing when to seek professional treatment for a knee injury can mean the difference between recovering quickly and suffering from complications that can greatly affect your long-term mobility and quality of life. This blog breaks down the top signs that you may need treatment from an orthopedic surgeon.

 

Persistent or Worsening Pain

Pain that does not subside after a few days or one that gets worse is an indication that appropriate medical treatment is necessary.

 

Persistent knee pain could point to a ligament injury or a cartilage tear, both of which typically do not heal on their own. Unlike muscles, the other soft tissues, namely the ligaments, menisci, tendons, and cartilage, have limited blood supply. This means they do not regenerate or repair as efficiently. Without proper medical intervention, injuries to these soft tissues can lead to long-term damage, chronic pain, and a reduced range of motion.

 

Knee Locking

Knee locking is a phenomenon in which the joint is fixed in a single position. Persistent knee locking requires professional evaluation, as aside from greatly affecting your mobility, it can put you at risk for further injury.

Meniscus tears are among the most common culprits behind knee locking. The meniscus acts as a cushion between your thigh and shin bones, and when it is torn, a piece of the cartilage can become caught in the joint, preventing smooth motion. Other potential causes include loose fragments of bone or cartilage (often referred to as “joint mice),” kneecap dislocation, and ligament injuries.

 

Instability or Weakness

If your injured knee feels wobbly, unstable, or like it might give out when you attempt to put weight on it, it could be a sign that it needs medical treatment. Instability or weakness often signifies damage to any of the ligaments, which are critical for keeping your knee steady during movement.

You might also notice difficulty with activities that require balance or quick changes in direction, such as climbing stairs or simply turning while walking. Leaving your injury untreated can lead to further strain, not just on your knee but also on your hips and ankles as they try to compensate.

Severe or Persistent Swelling

 

Swelling is not inherently harmful, as it is essentially the body’s natural reaction to trauma or injury. However, significant swelling or one that lingers even after a few days of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE therapy) could signal something that requires proper medical care, such as a ligament injury, a meniscus tear, or a fracture.

 

Crepitus

Crepitus refers to the popping, crackling, or crunching sensation you might notice when you bend or extend a joint. It is often caused by small gas bubbles that burst or collapse inside the joint space.

Crepitus, when occasional, is generally harmless. It becomes a cause for concern when it is accompanied by swelling, stiffness, or pain. In that case, get your knee checked out by your orthopedic surgeon. Common knee injuries that cause painful crepitus include cartilage tears, meniscus tears, and tendinitis.

 

Reduced Range of Motion

One of the clearest warning signs that your knee injury needs professional care is when the joint is unable to move the way it should. If bending, rotating, or twisting your knee feels restricted or uncomfortable, it is a strong indication that something serious is going on beneath the surface. Limited range of motion often signifies a ligament tear or a meniscus injury which, if left untreated, can accelerate the wear and tear of your knee and increase your risk of developing arthritis, among other problems.

 

Knee Injury Treatment in Walnut Creek, CA

If you are dealing with any of the symptoms mentioned above, do not wait to take action. Seeking prompt intervention can prevent minor issues from snowballing into major problems and help you get back to doing the things you love quickly.

 

For top-tier knee injury treatment in Walnut Creek, CA, turn to Dr. Laura Timmerman, a highly respected board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over three decades of experience. Renowned for her expertise in sports medicine, Dr. Timmerman has dedicated her career to helping athletes and active individuals recover from injuries, regain their strength and mobility, and return to peak performance.

To arrange an appointment with Dr. Timmerman, contact us at (925) 952-4080.

 

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