Sudden Knee Pop and Swelling? Next Healthcare Steps in Fort Worth, TX

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Sudden Knee Pop and Swelling? Next Healthcare Steps in Fort Worth, TX

If you felt a sudden pop in your knee during your workout today followed by swelling and difficulty putting weight on it, it’s completely natural to feel worried and want answers quickly. Knee injuries can vary widely — some are minor, but others require prompt medical care to prevent further damage. You’re in the right place to learn about what next steps to take, what kind of healthcare providers you should consider, and what the likely initial costs might be in Fort Worth, TX.

This guide will help you understand who to see about your knee injury, what to expect during your first visits, an idea of self-pay costs, and your rights when it comes to billing. This knowledge will empower you to get the care you need without surprises.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Fort Worth, TX

With your symptoms of a sudden knee pop and swelling, a few types of healthcare providers could be good first stops:

  • Orthopedic Surgeons: Specialists in bones, joints, and muscles. They are experts in diagnosing injuries like ligament tears or fractures that might cause a knee pop and swelling.
  • Family Practice Doctors: General practitioners who can assess injuries, recommend initial treatment, and guide you if you need referral to a specialist.
  • Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Doctors: Experts focusing on improving mobility and treating musculoskeletal issues, often involved after initial diagnosis.
  • Internal Medicine Doctors: Specialists in adult medicine who can evaluate your general health and provide referrals or initial care, especially if you have other medical conditions.

Each of these providers can start your evaluation and help determine if imaging or procedures are needed.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Here’s a breakdown of typical procedures these providers may perform based on self-pay cost data in Fort Worth, TX:

Visit with an Orthopedic Surgeon

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Initial evaluation to understand your knee injury, review symptoms, and decide next steps like imaging or treatment.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $196.85 (typically ranges from $147.64 to $246.06)
    This estimate is based on 96 providers in Fort Worth.

  • Procedure: X-ray of knee, 3 views (CPT Code: 73562)
    Purpose: Imaging to check for broken bones or other joint issues causing swelling and pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $62.56 (typically ranges from $46.92 to $78.20)
    Based on 37 providers in Fort Worth.

  • Procedure: Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from large joint (CPT Code: 20610)
    Purpose: Removing excess fluid from your knee to reduce swelling or injecting medication to relieve pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $131.18 (typically ranges from $80.77 to $181.58)
    From 68 providers available locally.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: General assessment of your injury and health to decide if you need imaging or referral.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $192.38 (typically ranges from $144.29 to $240.48)
    Based on 350 providers here.

  • Procedure: X-ray of chest, 2 views (CPT Code: 71046)
    Purpose: Typically not related to knee injury; included here for completeness.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $52.55 (range $35.87 to $69.22)
    Based on 22 providers.

Visit with a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Specialized evaluation focused on restoring function and managing pain after joint injury.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $197.06 (range $147.79 to $246.32)
    Based on 30 providers in the area.

  • Procedure: X-ray of knee, 1-2 views (CPT Code: 73560)
    Purpose: Less extensive imaging compared to 3 views, often used as an initial check.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $54.66 (range $40.97 to $68.35)
    Available from 1 provider locally.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Consultation to assess your overall health and offer guidance on your knee symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $194.37 (range $145.78 to $242.96)
    From 224 providers in Fort Worth.

  • Procedure: X-ray of knee, 3 views (CPT Code: 73562)
    Purpose: Detailed imaging to assess knee joint for damage or swelling causes.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $59.67 (range $39.35 to $80.00)
    From 1 provider locally.

  • Procedure: Ultrasound study of arm or leg veins with compression and maneuvers (CPT Code: 93970)
    Purpose: Check for blood clots or vein issues that might cause swelling in the leg.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $263.61 (range $178.16 to $349.06)
    Provided by 1 specialist in the area.

How to Interpret the Cost Estimates

Think of healthcare pricing in the U.S. like bargaining in a marketplace with several layers. The maximum cost listed is close to what providers initially “charge” for the procedure—the highest asking price. The minimum cost tends to be just above what Medicare has agreed to pay for the same service, a baseline rate that often leaves the provider breaking even or even losing money.

This range exists because healthcare pricing is not fixed and involves negotiations with insurers, location differences, and provider specialties. The costs you see are self-pay estimates—meaning what you might expect if you pay out-of-pocket without insurance. Always ask your provider for a Good Faith Estimate to understand actual costs before your visit.

Know Your Rights

Under federal law, if you are paying for your care without using insurance, your provider must give you a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) of expected charges if you ask for one or schedule services at least 3 business days ahead.

Providers often offer self-pay discounts if you ask in advance, so don’t hesitate to inquire:
“What is the cash price if I pay upfront?”

You also have the right to:

  • Request a detailed, itemized bill.
  • Question or dispute any charges that seem incorrect or duplicated.
  • Ask for CPT codes and billing details to better understand your bill.

Many states have additional protections against unfair billing, especially for uninsured patients. Being informed helps you advocate for yourself effectively.

Taking action now can help you address your knee injury safely and efficiently:

  • Schedule an Appointment: Contact an Orthopedic Surgeon, Family Practice doctor, or one of the other providers listed to get a thorough examination.
  • Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, when and how they started, and any questions you have about diagnosis or treatment options.
  • Discuss Costs Upfront: Confirm self-pay costs and ask for a Good Faith Estimate when booking your visit to avoid surprises.
  • Trust Your Instincts: If your knee pain worsens, swelling increases, or you develop fever and redness, seek immediate care.

Remember, getting a professional evaluation is the best way to ensure your knee heals well and you avoid long-term problems.

Need Help Navigating Your Options?

Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.

Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from your healthcare provider regarding your specific condition.