How do you know if your knee is broken?

There are several signs and symptoms that can indicate a broken knee, including:

1. Severe pain: Pain in the knee is one of the most common symptoms of a broken knee, especially if the pain is intense and worsens with movement.

2. Swelling: Swelling around the knee is another common symptom of a broken knee, as the body's natural response to injury is to send fluid and blood to the area.

3. Bruising: Bruising around the knee can occur as a result of the injury, especially if there has been damage to blood vessels.

4. Difficulty walking or moving the knee: Broken knees often make it difficult to walk or move the knee, as the bones and ligaments may be damaged and unable to support the body's weight or allow for normal movement.

5. Deformity: A broken knee may cause the knee to look deformed or out of place, especially if the bones have been displaced or broken in multiple places.

6. Tenderness: The area around the broken knee may be tender to the touch, especially over the site of the fracture or injury.

7. Crepitus: Crepitus, or a grating or grinding sensation, may be felt when moving the knee, which can be a sign of broken bones rubbing together.

8. Instability: A broken knee may feel unstable or "wobbly" when trying to stand or walk, as the bones and ligaments are unable to provide proper support.

9. Loss of sensation: In severe cases, a broken knee can lead to loss of sensation in the knee or lower leg, which should be treated as a medical emergency.

10. Change in skin temperature: The skin around a broken knee may feel cooler to the touch compared to the surrounding skin, indicating poor blood circulation to the area.

It's important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these signs and symptoms, as a broken knee may require immediate treatment and immobilization to prevent further damage. A doctor or medical professional will be able to properly assess the injury and recommend the best course of treatment.