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February 10, 2012
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Knee Injury (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:

When Should You Call the Doctor?

Emergent medical care should be sought if, due to injury,

  • there is almost immediate swelling in the knee,


  • if the bones appear deformed,


  • if there is inability to bear weight,


  • if the pain is intolerable,


  • if there is loss of sensation below the injury site,


  • or if the foot and ankle turn cold and no pulses can be felt.

Medical care should be considered if a knee injury does not resolve with routine home care, including rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Other symptoms that may suggest the need for medical care include recurrent pain and swelling.

A swollen joint is never normal, and if it is red and warm or if there is an associated fever, more urgent medical attention should be accessed.

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Knee Injury - Diagnosis

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How was your knee injury diagnosed?

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Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Knee Injury, Soft Tissue »

Soft tissue injuries of the knee are some of the most common and clinically challenging musculoskeletal disorders in patients presenting to the ED.

Read More on Medscape Reference »

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