Question

The three-year-and-seven-month-old child has a swollen left knee with effusion and is afraid to extend the leg straight. After applying cold compresses for two days, the swelling and pain in the knee have reduced, but there is still pain at night during naptime, and it’s difficult to walk in the morning. After cold compresses, the child can move around. The child has type 1 diabetes and has not had an MRI at the hospital. The doctor says to let the child rest for a week to see if the effusion can resolve on its own. I don’t know how to administer sedatives for an MRI to such a young child.

Answer

Based on your description, it is recommended to go for a follow-up examination at a local hospital and consider an MRI with sedation if necessary, usually using phenobarbital. According to your description, attention should be paid to rest, avoiding excessive exercise, and taking precautions against catching a cold by staying warm. Is there any regional trauma? Is the living environment damp? Wishing for an early recovery!