A swollen knee after twisting it while playing sports, tripping, or turning the wrong way should not be dismissed as a simple sprain. It may be caused by an injury to the knee ligaments or meniscus.
What Causes Knee Swelling After Twisting?
- Knee ligament injury: Can cause pain, swelling, and a feeling that the knee is unstable.
- Meniscus tear: May cause pain when walking or bending the knee, or a locking sensation.
- Knee joint inflammation: Fluid may build up inside the joint after an injury, causing swelling and difficulty moving the knee.
- Bone injury: Severe pain or difficulty putting weight on the leg may indicate a more serious injury.
What Should You Do If Your Knee Is Swollen After Twisting?
- Rest your knee. Avoid walking or exercising if it still hurts.
- Apply an ice pack. Wrap ice in a cloth and apply it for 15–20 minutes at a time.
- Elevate your leg. Place a pillow under your leg to help reduce swelling.
- Use a compression bandage. Wrap it snugly to support the knee, but not so tightly that it causes numbness or increased pain.
- Avoid massage and heat. Do not massage the injured area or apply heat while the knee is still swollen and painful.
When Should You See a Doctor?
- The knee swells quickly or becomes very swollen.
- Severe pain makes it difficult to walk or put weight on the leg.
- The knee feels unstable, gives way, or locks.
- You cannot fully bend or straighten the knee.
- The knee looks deformed, or your foot becomes numb, cold, or pale.
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly, especially if the pain is severe or the swelling develops rapidly.
Do You Need an X-ray or MRI?
Your doctor will examine your knee and assess your symptoms first. An X-ray may be needed if a fracture is suspected, while an MRI may be used to check for ligament or meniscus injuries. Not everyone needs an MRI.
How Long Does It Take for a Twisted, Swollen Knee to Heal?
If the injury is minor, symptoms may improve within a few days to 1–2 weeks. However, if a ligament or meniscus is torn, recovery may take several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment required. Some severe injuries may require injections into the knee joint or knee surgery.
If your symptoms do not improve with rest, or your knee remains painful and swollen, see a doctor to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Prach kamlangsinserm – Orthopedic Surgeon, Arthroscopic Surgery
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