What should I do if my knee hurts and cannot bend after a fall?
Feb 24, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, knee pain and inability to bend the knee after a fall may be caused by injuries such as a cruciate ligament injury, joint effusion, meniscus injury, fracture, or traumatic synovitis. Treatment options include medication or surgery. If patients experience discomfort, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment to prevent adverse outcomes.
Under normal circumstances, knee pain and inability to bend the knee after a fall may be caused by conditions such as cruciate ligament injury, joint effusion, meniscus injury, fracture, or traumatic synovitis. These can be treated with medications or surgery. Specific details are as follows:
1. Cruciate Ligament Injury
A fall may cause cruciate ligament injury. This type of injury can lead to bleeding and swelling, which restricts normal bending movement of the knee joint. Pain stimulating the ligaments can result in an inability to bend the knee. Treatment may include medications such as loxoprofen sodium tablets or etoricoxib tablets under medical guidance.
2. Joint Effusion
After a fall, fluid may accumulate within the joint, causing pain and limiting knee movement. Medical attention is usually required for fluid drainage.
3. Meniscus Injury
A fall can lead to meniscus damage. If the posterior horn of the meniscus is injured, it may create an uneven surface that prevents the knee from bending properly. Prompt medical treatment is necessary. Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications such as glucosamine sulfate capsules or chondroitin sulfate tablets may be used under medical supervision.
4. Fracture
Knee pain and inability to bend after a fall could indicate a fracture in the patella (kneecap), often accompanied by significant pain. It's important to visit a hospital promptly for imaging tests to determine whether there is displacement of the fracture site. Treatment options may include surgical intervention or external immobilization with a cast, as directed by a physician.
5. Traumatic Synovitis
Traumatic synovitis causes noticeable accumulation of fluid and blood within the knee joint, leading to swelling, pain, and restricted movement. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as methylprednisolone tablets or ibuprofen capsules to relieve symptoms.
If patients experience discomfort or unusual symptoms, they should seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment to prevent adverse outcomes.
