Can a blood clot cause radiating knee pain that becomes worse with bending knees?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 27-year-old female. Around two weeks ago, I started experiencing pain in the back of my right knee, radiating around the knee area and sometimes into my calf and thigh. It is worse when I bend my knees or sit on my knees. Sometimes stretching helps a little. I can walk on it just fine, but it does hurt a little sometimes. I do not know what this is. Does it sound like a blood clot or something serious? It started during a really bad anxiety attack but not during an injury or anything. I do not think I really have any risk factors for blood clots, save for being overweight. I do not smoke or use birth control. I would appreciate any advice.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

You have mentioned pain in the back of your knee region, which radiated both up and down. You have not mentioned any particular injury to the affected knee. In my opinion, at your age, a common cause of such pain is chondromalacia which is softening of the knee cap cartilage. Most of the cases of such knee pain need to be managed conservatively, especially if there are no other associated symptoms like instability, swelling, etc. So, initially, you can start with an anti-inflammatory medication that suits your body for five to seven days. Ice packs can be done initially in case of pain for 20 days. Intensive physical therapy should be initiated with emphasis on strengthening of quadriceps and stretching of hamstring group of muscles. Avoid any high-impact activity which increases your pain, avoid sitting cross-legged, etc. If this helps you, then it can be continued. Otherwise, we will require an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan of the affected knee.

Do not hesitate to get back to me should you need any further information.

Thanks and regards.