Sudden Knee Pop Swelling? Your Next Healthcare Steps in Long Beach, CA

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Sudden Knee Pop Swelling? Your Next Healthcare Steps in Long Beach, CA

If you felt a sudden pop in your right knee while working out today accompanied by swelling and trouble putting weight on it, it’s completely understandable to feel worried. Knee injuries can be painful and sometimes serious, so it’s smart that you’re looking for guidance. This post will help you understand what your symptoms might mean, who you should see for care in Long Beach, CA, and what the initial costs of evaluation and treatment typically look like. You’re in the right place to get clear, straightforward next steps.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Long Beach, CA

Given your sudden knee pop and swelling, several types of healthcare providers could be a good starting point for diagnosis and treatment:

  • Internal Medicine Doctor: Specialists who manage a variety of adult medical problems. They can evaluate your symptoms, order imaging tests, and refer you to specialists if needed.
  • Orthopedic Surgeon: Doctors specialized in bones, joints, and muscles. They are often the go-to experts for knee injuries and can provide surgical and nonsurgical treatment.
  • Family Practice Doctor: Generalist physicians who manage your overall health. They can perform an initial evaluation and often coordinate care with specialists.
  • Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Doctor (PM&R): These doctors focus on restoring function and mobility. They can diagnose musculoskeletal injuries and help with rehabilitation plans.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established Patient Office or Other Outpatient Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: This visit allows your doctor to evaluate your knee pain and swelling, discuss your symptoms in detail, and determine next steps.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $209.33 (typically ranges from $157 to $262)
    This estimate is based on 602 providers in the Long Beach area.

  • Procedure: X-ray of knee, 1-2 views (CPT Code: 73560)
    Purpose: An X-ray helps to check for bone fractures or alignment issues in your knee.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $66.24 (typically ranges from $43 to $89)
    This estimate is based on 3 providers in the Long Beach area.

  • Procedure: Complete ultrasound scan of joint (CPT Code: 76881)
    Purpose: Ultrasound allows your doctor to see soft tissue structures like ligaments and tendons for damage or swelling.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $122.86 (typically ranges from $69 to $177)
    This estimate is based on 2 providers in the Long Beach area.

Visit with an Orthopedic Surgeon

  • Procedure: Established Patient Office or Other Outpatient Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A focused exam by a knee specialist to diagnose your injury and discuss treatment options.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $216.41 (typically ranges from $160 to $273)
    This estimate is based on 165 providers in the Long Beach area.

  • Procedure: X-ray of knee, 3 views (CPT Code: 73562)
    Purpose: A more detailed set of X-rays to better visualize your knee bones and joint space.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $78.38 (typically ranges from $56 to $100)
    This estimate is based on 57 providers in the Long Beach area.

  • Procedure: Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from large joint (CPT Code: 20610)
    Purpose: Removing excess fluid or injecting medication into your knee can reduce swelling and pain.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $128.20 (typically ranges from $82 to $174)
    This estimate is based on 110 providers in the Long Beach area.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established Patient Office or Other Outpatient Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: General evaluation to identify the cause of your knee pain and coordinate further testing if necessary.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $212.06 (typically ranges from $159 to $265)
    This estimate is based on 574 providers in the Long Beach area.

  • Procedure: X-ray of knee, 4 or more views (CPT Code: 73564)
    Purpose: Comprehensive imaging to detect fractures, arthritis, or other problems.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $114.02 (typically ranges from $59 to $169)
    This estimate is based on 5 providers in the Long Beach area.

  • Procedure: Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from large joint (CPT Code: 20610)
    Purpose: This procedure helps relieve pressure and can aid diagnosis.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $112.67 (typically ranges from $85 to $141)
    This estimate is based on 14 providers in the Long Beach area.

  • Procedure: Complete ultrasound scan of joint (CPT Code: 76881)
    Purpose: Detailed soft tissue imaging to assess damage inside your knee.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $115.29 (typically ranges from $71 to $160)
    This estimate is based on 2 providers in the Long Beach area.

Visit with a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Doctor

  • Procedure: Established Patient Office or Other Outpatient Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Assessment and planning for recovery and rehabilitation to restore knee function.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $211.94 (typically ranges from $159 to $265)
    This estimate is based on 38 providers in the Long Beach area.

  • Procedure: X-ray of knee, 4 or more views (CPT Code: 73564)
    Purpose: In-depth imaging to evaluate the knee structure thoroughly.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $87.51 (typically ranges from $65 to $110)
    This estimate is based on 3 providers in the Long Beach area.

  • Procedure: Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from large joint (CPT Code: 20610)
    Purpose: Removing fluid or delivering medication to manage swelling and promote healing.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $179.56 (typically ranges from $79 to $280)
    This estimate is based on 12 providers in the Long Beach area.

  • Procedure: Limited ultrasound scan of joint or other extremity structure except blood vessels (CPT Code: 76882)
    Purpose: Focused ultrasound exam to assess specific knee structures.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $97.40 (typically ranges from $55 to $139)
    This estimate is based on 2 providers in the Long Beach area.

How to Interpret the Cost Estimates

Healthcare costs in the U.S. can feel like haggling at a market rather than fixed prices you see on a shelf. The estimates given here reflect a range within which you might pay:

  • The maximum cost is a bit less than the “charged amount,” which is what providers initially ask for before negotiation.
  • The minimum cost is slightly above what Medicare, the government insurance program, has agreed to pay for the service. At this price, providers might only break even or even lose money.

This range helps you prepare but remember individual bills vary widely depending on the provider, your insurance, and specific needs.

Know Your Rights

You have a right to transparency about your medical costs through the Good Faith Estimate (GFE). If you plan to pay out of pocket (without using insurance):

  • You can request a GFE from your provider before scheduling or receiving care (preferably at least 3 business days ahead).
  • The GFE will detail the expected charges for your visit and procedures.
  • Many providers offer discounts for self-pay patients if you ask upfront — don’t hesitate to inquire: “What’s the cash price if I pay upfront?”
  • You have the right to ask for an itemized bill, request CPT codes, and challenge charges that seem duplicated, incorrect, or unreasonably high. Various state laws protect patients from unfair billing practices.

Taking action now can help you find the care you need promptly:

  • Schedule an Appointment: Contact an Internal Medicine, Family Practice, Orthopedic Surgery, or Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation provider in Long Beach, CA.
  • Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, when they started, how severe they are, and any questions you want to ask.
  • Discuss Costs: When booking, ask the office to confirm estimated costs and whether they offer self-pay discounts.
  • Final Reassurance: Seeking professional advice is the best step to protect your knee and overall health, so you’re doing the right thing.

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 is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a sudden knee injury with severe pain, swelling, or inability to walk, seek immediate medical care.