Member Case Study: Knee Edema

author : AMSSM
comments : 0

I seem to have developed a benign "mystery " edema on the medial aspects of my knees. But I have absolutely no discomfort whatsoever.

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Member Question from Aquagirl


I seem to have developed a benign "mystery " edema on the medial aspects of my knees...more pronounced on the left. I say benign because I have absolutely no discomfort whatsoever. I am pretty conservative about increasing my run volumes. I bike a lot but nothing out of the ordinary. I assumed perhaps it was a cleat issue, and changed my Look cleats to the red ones which have more float. I do not know if this is an ominous sign or not! 
 

Answer from Dawn Mattern, MD

Member AMSSM

 

It is a good sign that you have no pain associated with this "edema".  When determining a diagnosis for edema in the medial knee, we tend to worry most about the joint line and the cartilage pad or meniscus that hides there.  Another option is a swollen pes anserine bursa, a fluid cushion for the hamstring tendons as they tie into the medial tibia. Since you are not in pain, I suspect it is the latter.   Be cautious with changing your cleats from Look to Speed play without knowing if the lack of pedal float is contributing to your problem.  I would advise seeing a sports physician to get an accurate diagnosis, particularly one who treats cyclists, especially if the "edema" worsens or becomes associated with pain.

  

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date: July 24, 2009

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The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) was formed in 1991 to fill a void that has existed in sports medicine from its earliest beginnings. The founders most recognized and expert sports medicine specialists realized that while there are several physician organizations which support sports medicine, there has not been a forum specific for primary care non-surgical sports medicine physicians.

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The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) was formed in 1991 to fill a void that has existed in sports medicine from its earliest beginnings. The founders most recognized and expert sports medicine specialists realized that while there are several physician organizations which support sports medicine, there has not been a forum specific for primary care non-surgical sports medicine physicians.

FIND A SPORTS MEDICINE DOCTOR

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