i-Human Case Study 2025/2026: Acute Left Knee Pain in a 57-Year-Old – Meniscal Tear & Osteoarthritis Management

A comprehensive i-Human case study for 2025/2026 on a 57-year-old male presenting with acute left knee pain following a twisting injury while gardening, with an audible "pop," rapid swelling, medial joint line tenderness, and mechanical symptoms. This case explores the systematic evaluation of acute traumatic knee injury in a middle-aged adult with underlying osteoarthritis. Covers detailed history taking (mechanism of injury, pain characteristics, functional impairment), physical examination findings (effusion, medial joint line tenderness, positive McMurray and Thessaly tests), diagnostic imaging (weight-bearing X-rays, MRI for soft tissue characterization), and evidence-based management including RICE protocol, NSAIDs, hinged knee brace, orthopedic referral, and shared decision-making regarding arthroscopic partial meniscectomy versus physical therapy. Ideal for advanced practice nursing, medical students, and primary care clinicians preparing for i-Human simulations, NRNP coursework, and musculoskeletal clinical rotations.