Expert: Dr. Timothy K. Durnin - 10/4/2008

Question
Hello Doctor.  I fell the day before yesterday on my left knee.  My left big toe got stuck in my right pant-leg and caused me to trip and land directly on my left knee with all of my weight; I weigh about 200lbs.  The whole knee was swollen and sore initially.  Now, I have a bruise across the knee directly below the knee cap; it is swollen in the same place.  Behind my knee is sore also and so is my left hip.  I want to know what might be going on because it is not easy for me to get to the doctor and I don't want to waste my time.  Thank you!

Answer
Hi Alisson,

You sustained blunt trauma to the back of the knee cap causing swelling and inflammation, this will subside with time. One thing to note is you may develop sub-patellar bursitis and chondomalacia patella. I would strongly suggest you ice it down as much as possible and maintain as much range of motion as possible.

Also, get some OTC glucosamine sulfate and take 3/grams/day to ward off any inevitable post-traumatic osteoarthritis. A X-ray may be prudent to R/O any hair-line occult fracture as well.


The hip pain is self limiting and shouls resolve in 3 weeks, if not, get it looked at.


Good Luck!

Dr. Timothy Durnin