Knee Problems And Injuries: Check Your Symptoms

Content provided by Healthwise

When to See a Doctor

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.

Last updated:	September 19, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer