Differential Diagnosis for Sore Knee with Sensation of Pulling in the Back of Knee

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Meniscal Tear: A meniscal tear can cause pain and a sensation of pulling or catching in the knee, especially in the back of the knee. This is due to the meniscus being torn and potentially displaced, causing mechanical symptoms.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Ligament Sprain: A sprain of the ligaments surrounding the knee, such as the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), can cause pain and instability, potentially leading to a sensation of pulling.
  • Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the knee, such as the hamstring or popliteus tendons, can cause pain and a pulling sensation, especially at the back of the knee.
  • Baker's Cyst: A fluid-filled cyst that causes a bulge and a feeling of tightness behind your knee, potentially leading to a sensation of pulling.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Although less common, DVT can cause pain and swelling in the knee and leg, and it's crucial to rule out this condition due to its potential for severe complications, such as pulmonary embolism.
  • Osteonecrosis: A condition that occurs when there is loss of blood to the bone, leading to tiny breaks in the bone and the bone's eventual collapse. It can cause severe pain and should not be missed.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Popliteal Artery Entrapment Syndrome: A rare condition where the popliteal artery is compressed, leading to pain, swelling, and potentially a sensation of pulling in the back of the knee.
  • Ganglion Cyst: A lump under the skin that occurs when fluid accumulates, potentially causing pain and a sensation of pulling if located at the back of the knee.