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How Do Doctors Check Your Knee? The Secrets of the Knee Exam Revealed
Published: Nov 25, 2023
A thorough knee exam is crucial for diagnosing injuries and conditions. Understanding what doctors look for can help you get the right treatment.
The Visual Inspection: What Doctors See at First Glance
Doctors start by observing how you walk and move. They look for swelling, bruising, and changes in knee alignment. Any scars or skin changes are also noted. This visual check provides important clues about potential knee problems.
Hands-On Assessment: Feeling for Clues
Next, doctors use their hands to feel different parts of your knee. They check for tender spots, fluid buildup, and temperature changes. The knee joint line, kneecap area, and back of the knee are all carefully examined. This hands-on approach helps pinpoint specific issues.
Testing Your Knee's Movement
Doctors will ask you to bend and straighten your knee. They measure how far you can move and look for any pain or stiffness. Comparing movement to your other knee helps identify problems. Special tests may be done to check ligaments and other structures.
Checking Strength and Stability
Your doctor will test the strength of muscles around your knee. They'll also check how stable your knee is by gently stressing different parts of the joint. These tests help diagnose ligament injuries and muscle weakness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most parts are painless, but some tests may cause mild discomfort.
A thorough exam usually takes 10-15 minutes.
Shorts or loose pants that can be rolled up easily.
Sometimes, but the physical exam often provides enough information.
You can check for swelling or pain, but a doctor's exam is more comprehensive.
The Bottom Line
A thorough knee exam is a powerful tool for diagnosing knee problems and guiding treatment.
References
- Malanga GA, et al. Physical examination of the knee: a review of the original test description and scientific validity of common orthopedic tests. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2003; 84:592.
- Beutler AI, et al. Electromyographic Analysis of Single-Leg, Closed Chain Exercises: Implications for Rehabilitation After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction. J Athl Train 2002; 37:13.
- Solomon DH, et al. The rational clinical examination. Does this patient have a torn meniscus or ligament of the knee? Value of the physical examination. JAMA 2001; 286:1610.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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