When to See a Doctor About Knee Pain

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Updated on November 28, 2019

Most athletes will experience some knee pain from time to time. Overuse, long training days, or bumps and bruises from contact sports often result in minor knee pain that resolves within a day or two with some rest and ice. But there are some clues that indicate more serious knee pain and injuries that may need to be seen by a doctor for a complete evaluation and treatment plan.

You should see a doctor for your knee pain if you have any of the following warning signs:

Pain Lasting More Than 48 Hours

If you have pain in the knee joint that prevents you from walking normally for more than a day or two you should get checked by a doctor. Some of the causes of pain deep within the joint include an abnormalities of the meniscus or cartilage that covers and supports the joint.

The meniscus is referred to as the shock absorber in the knee. The cartilage covers the ends of the leg bones to allow smooth flexion and extension of the knee during walking and running. Abnormalities of either the meniscus or cartilage can not only limit the smooth range of motion of the joint, but it may contribute to a feeling of deep knee pain.

Beyond the pain itself, a meniscus tear will often cause a popping sensation (sometimes audible) and may make it feel as if your knee is locked in place when you try to move it.

Swelling Lasting More Than 48 Hours

The first thing that can happen after an acute injury is swelling around the site of the injury. When the knee is injured, it can swell as a result of inflammation or possibly bleeding into the knee joint. This swelling can causes pain and loss of motion, which limits the use of the knee.

Swelling is usually obvious and can be seen, but occasionally you may just feel as though something is swollen even though it looks normal. Swelling within a joint can cause pain and stiffness. It may sometimes lead to a clicking sound as the tendons snap over one another after having been pushed into a new position from the swelling.

If the knee looks deformed or misaligned, don't delay in seeking treatment. It could be a sign of a fracture or dislocation. These injuries should be evaluated and addressed in a timely fashion to address the source of injury and prevent long term effects.

Instability or Reduced Range of Motion

Reduced range of motion can be related to swelling in the knee, as well as other joint injuries. If you have limited range of motion that does not begin to improve within a few days, you should contact your doctor.

Instability in the knee joint or a sensation that the knee is bending or moving in the wrong direction may suggest a ligament injury to the knee. The knee ligaments provide support and stability to the joint; if they are stretched or torn due to an injury, instability is one of the most obvious warning signs.

A difference in your ability to support your full body weight on one leg, compared to the other, is another tip-off to an injury that requires attention.

A Word From Verywell

If you have any of these signs, you may want to see your primary care physician or a sports medicine specialist for a complete evaluation and treatment plan. Depending on the injury, you might be referred to an orthopedic surgeon. Prepare for your visit so you know the symptoms to report and the questions to ask to hasten your diagnosis and treatment.