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What Causes Sharp Pain Behind Knee?
Question: I am a 47 year old female who is a light runner. About 3 weeks ago I woke up with sharp pain on the inner side (below the knee cap) of my right knee. The pain has been constant ever since, sometimes less acute and other times it feels like a large needle is being shoved into that particular area. Sometimes the entire knee throbs and sometimes it feels weak (although it's never given out on me). My doctor took an x-ray and has scheduled me for an MRI. He thinks it might be a cyst, but I looked up symptoms of Bakers cysts and the symptoms don't seem to match the pain I have. Just curious if you had any input. Thank you.
Brief Answer:
It is probably an inflammatory condition!
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.
I am so sorry to hear about this pain. the truth is that these symptoms do not seem to be explained by a disease process affecting the bones. This seems more related to a soft tissue(tendons, ligaments and muscles) related pains. An X-ray cannot show much but an MRI is the key here. I believe this would provide more information.
Like you mentioned, baker cysts is not a diagnosis mad using MRI. the cyst is often visible behind the knee joint in the fossa.
In all, the cause may be related to soft tissue. A cyst is unlikely at this time. However, NRI would answer our questions and provide a definite way forward. For now, pain medications, rest and avoid putting weigh on this leg would be helpful until we make the final diagnosis and provide a definitive management plan.
I hope this helps, I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
It is probably an inflammatory condition!
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.
I am so sorry to hear about this pain. the truth is that these symptoms do not seem to be explained by a disease process affecting the bones. This seems more related to a soft tissue(tendons, ligaments and muscles) related pains. An X-ray cannot show much but an MRI is the key here. I believe this would provide more information.
Like you mentioned, baker cysts is not a diagnosis mad using MRI. the cyst is often visible behind the knee joint in the fossa.
In all, the cause may be related to soft tissue. A cyst is unlikely at this time. However, NRI would answer our questions and provide a definite way forward. For now, pain medications, rest and avoid putting weigh on this leg would be helpful until we make the final diagnosis and provide a definitive management plan.
I hope this helps, I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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