Do I Have A Sprained Knee?

Is your knee swollen?

Do you experience buckling of your knee?

Does your knee feel weak?

Is your knee bruised?

Do you experience pain in your knee?

Do you experience tenderness in your knee?

Does your knee feel stiff?

Does your knee make a popping sound?

Do you experience muscle spasms in your knee?

While it is unlikely that you have a sprained knee, you may be displaying a sign related to it. A knee sprain occurs when ligaments are torn or overstretched. A knee sprain is not only painful; it can also create other issues over time, such as arthritis. Depending on which ligament in the knee was sprained (we have four main ligaments; two that stabilize its front and back, and two ligaments that stabilize side-to-side movement) different symptoms may be experienced. It may be important to discuss your symptom(s) with your doctor. In case you answered ‘no’ to all questions, there may be no reasons to be worried about a sprained knee.

Based on your answers, unfortunately, you are displaying several signs related to a sprained knee. It’s important to visit your doctor as soon as you can. He will test the ligaments to see if the joint is stable or if there is any instability. He will also determine your mobility and compare it to your healthy knee. An X-ray may be needed to determine if there is a broken bone, and other imaging tests may be required as well to make an accurate diagnosis. The treatment will depend on the severity of your injury as well as the exact location of the damage.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have a sprained knee. It’s highly important to seek medical help as soon as possible. Your doctor will determine the (in)stability of your ligaments and your mobility. He will also look for swelling and bruising. The treatment that he recommends will depend on the severity of the injury and what part of the knee was damaged. Make sure to rest and ice your knee, take prescribed pain medication, compress and immobilize the knee, and do knee exercises as recommended by your doctor. If the ligament is torn, you may need surgery.