Question
The 3-year-7-month-old child’s left knee joint is swollen and has effusion, and they are afraid to straighten their leg. They have been applying cold compresses for the past two days, and the knee that was painful no longer feels as hot. However, they have trouble sleeping during naptime at night due to leg pain. They are afraid to walk in the morning, but can move around after a cold compress. The child has type 1 diabetes, and the hospital has not done an MRI. The doctor said to let the child rest for a week to see if the effusion can be dissolved naturally. I’m not sure how to administer sedatives for an MRI to such a young child?
Answer
Based on the situation you described, it is recommended to have a local hospital re-examine the child. If necessary, consider deciding on an MRI with sedatives. Typically, phenobarbital is used. Given your child’s condition, attention should be paid to rest and prevent excessive exercise, take good cold prevention measures to avoid catching a cold. Has the child had any regional injuries in the past? Is there any dampness in the temporary living environment? Wishing the patient a speedy recovery!