Nontraumatic knee pain: A diagnostic & treatment guide
Little has been written about nontraumatic nonarthritic knee pain in adults. This article seeks to fill that void with practical tips and an at-a-glance resource.
Synovial fluid analysis characteristics suggestive of a septic joint include turbid quality, WBC >50,000 per mm3, an elevated protein content, and a low glucose concentration.30 Gram stain and culture will help identify the infectious agent. Orthopedic referral should not be delayed in patients with a suspected infectious joint. Corticosteroids should not be injected during aspiration if infection is being ruled out.
CASE › When Ms. T returns for a follow-up visit 8 weeks later, she states that the knee pain has resolved and that she has returned to running. She has lost an additional 8 pounds and continues to diet. And, at the advice of her physical therapist, she is continuing her physiotherapy regimen at home to prevent a recurrence of PFPS.
CORRESPONDENCE
Carlton J. Covey, MD, FAAFP, Nellis Family Medicine Residency Program, 4700 Las Vegas Boulevard North, Nellis Air Force Base, NV 89191; carlton.covey@us.af.mil
