Knee pain not sure what it is?

[katie1234344]

I tripped and fell crossing the street yesterday and now my knee just below my patella hurts when ever  i bend it with pressure on it.  it also hurts when i press on it though their isnt a bruise could it possibly be hyper extended?

[katie1234344]

thanks i do a lot of heavy lifting at work so i'm hoping its just a strain.... i do plan to go to the doctor if it gets any worse though, i just cant afford to not be on my feet right now but for now i'll try and avoid lifting too much i guess. :)

[caregiver222]

This is one of those problems that may or may not resolve on it's own. In general the drill is an ACE bandage wrapped circumferentially (not too tight) before any swelli g takes place and then cold for the first 48 hours, then warm compresses. You may or may not have damaged the miniscus. In such a case there may be (a) strain (b) a partial tear (c) a full separation and the location must be determined by MRI. Differential diagnosis in an ER is to withdraw fluid from the area and examine this under a microscope to determine if there is blood present. Blood indicates miniscus damage. If not fluid is withdrawn and a period of immobilization is prescribed, usually with a velco bandage that attaches to the thigh and lower part of the leg with a metal hinge at the knee. If there is no tear immobilization and rest, followed by light exercise usually solves the problem.

[katie1234344]

Thanks .... Idk why I didn't just think about doing that but I'll try it and see if it helps any :)

[evewisewoman]

Hi Katie,

You might try using an ice pack on your knee. It is advisable to put the
ice pack in something like a thin kitchen towel or a pillow case works too.
Ice packs can usually be purchased at a drug store. I'd get two so you
can alternate them. Put the ice pack on for about 10 minutes. Recommended  amount of time is 10 minutes but you can add 5 or 10
minutes more. Try and lie down and rest your knee. Good luck to you. Eve