Critical Warning Signs of Knee Problems: When to Seek Medical Care

Key Warning Signs to Watch For

Immediate Medical Attention Required

• Severe Pain and Swelling
  • Sudden onset within 24 hours
  • Unable to bear weight
  • Accompanied by warmth and redness
• Visible Deformity
  • Obvious misalignment
  • Joint appears different from the other knee
• Popping Sound with Immediate Pain
  • Especially during sports or sudden movements
  • Associated with instability

Urgent Care Recommended

• Persistent Swelling
  • Lasting more than 48 hours
  • Not improving with RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
• Limited Range of Motion
  • Cannot fully extend or bend the knee
  • Locked knee sensation
• Instability
  • Frequent giving way
  • Unable to trust the knee when walking

Schedule Regular Appointment

• Chronic Pain
  • Persistent discomfort lasting weeks
  • Pain with specific activities
• Recurring Swelling
  • After activity
  • Morning stiffness

Prevention Tips

• Maintain healthy weight
• Use proper exercise technique
• Wear appropriate footwear
• Strengthen supporting muscles
• Avoid overtraining

When to Return to Activity

• Pain-free movement
• Full range of motion
• Equal strength to unaffected side
• Physician clearance when required