Knee Problems and Injuries
When To See a Doctor
You have answered Yes to:
Has your knee given out, buckled, or felt unstable after an injury?
See significance of a knee that buckles or feels unstable if you need information to help you answer the questions below.
Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.
Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Do you have severe pain?
Yes Has a lot of swelling developed within 30 minutes of an injury?
Yes Does your knee look twisted or bent out of its normal position?
Yes Is your knee so unstable that you cannot stand or walk (bear weight)?
Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Did your knee suddenly give out or buckle, but it seems all right now?
You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Has your knee felt unstable for a long time, but you have never had it checked by a doctor?
Yes Has your knee felt unstable for a long time, and the problem has gotten worse since you had it checked by a doctor?
If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: September 19, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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