Knee Abnormalities: An Ongoing Concern
Age: 36, Gender: Female, Location: United Kingdom Height: 5 feet 7 inches Weight: 13 stone About a year and a half ago, I began to notice an unusual swelling in my right knee accompanied by a lump that felt approximately the size of a ping pong ball situated just above my kneecap. This swelling brought about some discomfort, particularly when I spent long hours on my feet or bent my knee. Remarkably, I couldn’t pinpoint any specific injury that might have led to this condition; thus, when the lump and swelling showed no signs of improvement, I decided to consult my general practitioner approximately six weeks later. The doctor expressed that it seemed I might have sustained a tear that hadn’t properly healed. Their recommendation was for me to take some time off to rest, use pain relief medication, and they also referred me to physical therapy. However, the waiting period for therapy was exceedingly long; by the time I finally received an appointment—six months later—the swelling had decreased significantly, and I was no longer experiencing pain from the lump. Now, in the present moment, the discomfort has not returned; however, the appearance of my knee is concerning. It looks noticeably deformed compared to my left knee. The initial lump has increased in size, and I’ve developed several smaller lumps the size of peas on my knee, thigh, and lower leg. While I do not experience pain, I occasionally encounter challenges when walking or standing for prolonged periods, though I struggle to articulate exactly why. Interestingly, when I bend my knee in a silent environment, I can hear a sound reminiscent of fabric stretching. Overall, aside from my knee issues, I generally feel well, although I do find myself feeling more fatigued than usual. Should I consider reaching out to my GP for further evaluation? Given how challenging it is to secure an appointment, I contemplate whether living with this condition might be the simpler option to avoid any inconveniences.
Answers (1)
8/2/2025, 7:02:15 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about the changes in your knee, especially since you've noticed a significant difference in its appearance and the presence of lumps. While it’s good that you’re not experiencing pain currently, the situation you describe warrants attention, particularly since you have reported additional lumps and occasional difficulties with mobility.
Understanding Your Situation
The swelling and lumps around your knee could be due to various factors, including joint issues, bursitis, or even soft tissue changes. The clicking sound you hear may indicate changes in the knee structures, possibly related to ligaments or cartilage. While your fatigue might not be directly related to your knee issues, it's important to acknowledge all aspects of your health.
Next Steps
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Contact Your GP: Given the continuation of the swelling, the presence of new lumps, and mobility issues, I highly recommend reaching out to your general practitioner. Even though securing an appointment can be challenging, your symptoms suggest that further evaluation is necessary to rule out serious conditions and to explore appropriate treatments. You might consider explaining your situation clearly when you call, emphasizing the changes in your knee appearance and mobility.
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a record of any changes in your knee, such as the size of the lumps, any difficulties in walking, or other symptoms. This information can be helpful for your doctor to understand how your condition is evolving.
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Rest and Modify Activity: While awaiting further evaluation, it may be beneficial to reduce activities that exacerbate any discomfort. Focus on rest and avoid high-impact activities as much as possible.
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Consider Home Care: In the meantime, applying ice packs to the swollen areas and elevating your knee may help reduce swelling. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen, can alleviate discomfort if needed.
By prioritizing these steps, you can proactively manage your knee condition and seek clarity on the best approach moving forward. If there’s anything more you’d like to share or ask, please feel free to do so. Your health is important, and you deserve to have clarity and support as you navigate this issue.
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