Pain & Diagnosis
Pain location and pattern can guide assessment, but do not establish a diagnosis on their own. Examination and appropriate imaging help distinguish joint, kneecap, tendon, meniscus, ligament and referred causes.
Arthritis & Joint Replacement
Arthritis care can include education, activity and load modification, rehabilitation, medicines or injections when appropriate. Replacement is considered when symptoms, function, examination, imaging and previous treatment support it; age or an X-ray alone does not decide the question.
Sports Knee
A twisting injury, swelling, instability or loss of motion may involve the ACL, other ligaments, meniscus or cartilage. A plan should account for the whole knee and the person’s activity goals.
Meniscus & Cartilage
The meniscus distributes load; articular cartilage covers the joint surface. They are different structures, and a meniscus tear or cartilage finding does not automatically require surgery.
Revision & Complex Problems
Persistent symptoms after knee replacement or previous ligament surgery require a cause-led assessment. Infection, instability, stiffness, alignment, implant fixation and problems outside the knee may need consideration.
When should knee symptoms be assessed urgently?
Urgent assessment is important after major trauma with deformity or inability to bear weight, a truly locked knee, or a hot swollen knee with fever or feeling unwell.
Does every MRI finding need treatment?
No. MRI findings are interpreted with the history, examination and the patient’s symptoms and goals.
Written and medically reviewed by: Dr. Yousef Abuodeh Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon