<human>: i fell off of my son s scooter the day before yesterday. In addition to skinning my knee up pretty badly, it s now starting to ache like a charlie horse and hurt. It s red and swollen and the top of my knee is numb. I have taken lots of advil and it still hurts really badly. Should I go to the er?
<bot>: Hi there. Thanks for your question at Chat Doctor. You will need to the head to the ER for an x-ray if:1. You are not able to walk on your affected knee(not able to take any steps without pain). 2. you are not able to bend and straighten your knee to the fullest extent(or your previous normal range of motion). 3. There are any areas of your knee which are very tender to touch(after you feel all the spots of your knee-all around). 4. If you are elderly, say more than 55 years (your chances of major injury increase with age). In the meantime- rest, ice application, elevation of the affected leg and painkiller medicines can give you some relief.(maximum relief in initial 48 hours)Hope this helps. All the best. Regards.  Chat Doctor. 