Draining + steroids 10 weeks PO
Had ACL and meniscus repair 10 weeks ago. Rehab has been going really well — I can go downstairs carrying my 50-lb scooter, do single-leg squats, and my muscle is coming back nicely.
Even though I’m hitting the milestones, the swelling hasn’t gone down as much as expected. I had fluid buildup that was limiting how my kneecap was gliding, causing that “stuck” feeling. It had improved a lot, and I would only notice it when the knee got really swollen.
My doctor decided to drain the fluid and inject corticosteroids because the swelling was holding me back from progressing more in PT, even though overall I’m doing well.
This picture is what they drained — about 30 cc! Honestly, it’s pretty amazing how they can reach in and remove it. The procedure itself didn’t hurt, but now, about an hour later, my knee feels really stiff and “stuck” again 😕. It almost feels like it did around week 3. I’m walking awkwardly because of that stuck feeling.
Has anyone else had this done? Did the stiffness only last a day or two? I really miss being able to walk normally and not constantly think about my knee 🥲