Chronic Leg Pain

Chronic Leg Pain

Q:

Age: 21 Sex: F Concern: Chronic pain

About 8 years ago, I fell on a concrete floor and landed on my left kneecap while roller skating. Ever since, my knee and leg have been in pain. I have been to a doctor that says even laser surgery won't fix the problem. The X-ray showed that my left knee cap now sits on top of my knee and is scraped every time I walk. Sometimes, especially on humid day, my entire leg cramps up and hurts from by lower back all the way to my calf. Is there anything that I can do for this? It is very bothersome and painful. Thank you.

-- Kelly

A:

If there is no fracture, then you may have patellofemoral syndrome which gives anterior knee pain. The theory is that there is abnormal tracking of the patellar in the femoral groove. Treatment is mostly conservative with strengthening of the quadriceps to taping of the patella. You also need to see a sports doctor to make sure that you don't have any ligamentous or meniscal injury. A physiatrist can help you with that.

-- Sherman Nam Tran, M. D.

to ask Dr. Tran.