What Causes Pain And Swelling In The Knees?

Posted on Mon, 21 Aug 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 Answered on

Mon, 11 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Several weeks ago while working outdoors I knelt onto a long thorn that pierced deep into my right knee. That evening I pulled the object out. I think it penetrated to the bone. Within in a day my knee was swollen. My entire knee remains swollen, warm to the touch, somewhat tender and painful when bumped. There may be some slight swelling down to my foot. I don't have any fever. I'm in generally good health. I take 20 mg statin daily along with vitamins and supplements .

Answered by Dr. Dr. Gopal (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Could be septic / Traumatic aynovitis.

Detailed Answer:
Hi, I am Dr Gopal Goel Orthopedic Surgeon.
After going through your history and swelling , In my opinion , you have septic / Traumatic synovitis(Inflammation of knee joint coverings) in the knee due to Thorn.
I suggest
1. CBC - Blood counts to see active infection
2. MRI of the knee - to see the nature of swelling and hint about possible pathology.
3. Aspiration of the knee and the fluid aspirated should be sent for routine examination and culture + sensitivity.
4 Complete rest to knee in the form of non weight bearing and use of knee support.
5. Start anti inflammatory pain killers and if Culture is positive -appropriate antibiotics.
I hope to have answered your question. Please feel free to ask any other question.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng