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Warning-sign checks

Knee pain: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if the leg or foot becomes cold, pale, blue, or numb after an injury.

    Chest pain or sudden breathlessness with new leg swelling is also an emergency.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical care if your knee becomes hot, red, very swollen, and painful, especially if you have a fever or feel generally unwell.

    A joint infection needs prompt treatment.

    Sudden severe swelling without a clear cause also needs urgent assessment.

    Get urgent help after an injury if you cannot put weight on the leg, cannot move the knee, heard a crack, or the knee changed shape.

    Rapid swelling soon after a twist or impact can suggest a significant internal injury.

    Arrange follow-up sooner if the knee repeatedly locks or gives way, or if swelling does not settle.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if pain lasts for several weeks, keeps returning, disturbs sleep, or limits work, exercise, or everyday activities.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Knee pain. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.