Cost and time are important to anyone, and knowing if your knee problem is urgent or not is helpful.

First published in 2013, and reviewed August 2023 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)

 

This list gives an idea of the relative urgency of different knee problems:

 

Relatively trivial

 

Moderately problematic

 

Not so serious - but surgery urgent

 

Moderately serious - but not urgent. Seek specialist advice.

 

Serious - but surgery not urgent. Expect major rehab issues. Important to get the best surgeon you can when you are referred for surgery.

 

Serious - surgery urgent. Expect later problems.

 

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