What Are the 7 Key Symptoms of a Fractured Knee?

Symptoms that Require You to Seek Medical Help

1. Severe Pain Around the Knee
   One of the most common fractured knee symptoms is sudden and intense pain. The pain usually starts right after the injury and does not go away with rest. Even small movements, such as trying to stand or bend the knee, can make the discomfort sharper.

   Unlike minor bruises or sprains, the pain from a fracture often feels deep and constant.

2. Swelling and Bruising
   Swelling is another strong sign of a fractured knee. It may appear within minutes to hours after the injury and can make the joint look larger than usual. The swelling happens because the body sends extra blood and fluid to the injured area.

   Along with swelling, bruising often appears around the knee or even spreads down the leg. Both of these signs usually point to more than just a simple sprain.

3. Difficulty Moving the Knee
   Limited movement is a primary indication of a knee fracture. Many people find it hard or nearly impossible to bend or straighten the knee without pain.
   In some cases, the joint may feel “locked” or stiff. This restriction often comes from damage to the bone, swelling in the joint, or pain signals that prevent normal function.
4. Inability to Bear Weight
   A clear difference between minor injuries and a fracture is the ability to put weight on the leg. With a fractured knee, standing or walking often feels unbearable. The pain may increase as soon as you try to place pressure on the injured leg, forcing you to rely on crutches or avoid walking altogether.

   This symptom usually indicates that the bone is not stable enough to support normal movement.

5. Visible Deformity
   Sometimes, a fractured knee may show visible changes in shape. The kneecap or surrounding area may look out of place or uneven compared to the other leg. In more severe cases, the bone may push against the skin, creating an obvious deformity.

   Any visible misalignment of the knee should be treated as a strong warning sign of a fracture.

6. Tenderness to Touch
   Another common fractured knee symptom is tenderness when pressing around the injured area. Even light pressure can trigger pain. This reaction often helps doctors identify the exact location of the fracture.
   While tenderness can also occur in sprains, it is usually more severe and widespread with a fracture.
7. Numbness or Tingling
   At times, a fractured knee may affect nearby nerves or blood vessels. This can lead to numbness, tingling, or a cold sensation in the lower leg or foot. These symptoms may suggest poor blood flow and need immediate medical attention to avoid further complications.

If you notice any of these fractured knee symptoms after an injury, it is important to schedule a medical evaluation. A proper diagnosis often involves physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays.

Early fracture treatment not only helps relieve pain but also supports better healing and prevents long-term joint problems.

The Bottom Line

If you suspect a fractured knee, professional care is the safest step toward recovery. At Barrett S. Brown, M.D., our distinguished orthopedic surgeon offers expert evaluation and treatment for fractures and other knee injuries.

With advanced medical knowledge and compassionate care, he helps patients return to their daily activities. Call our office today at (346) 247-2531 to schedule your consultation!