What can i do about a bad knee injury? will an mri be likely

Start with x-ray: The vast majority of the time, the first study ordered will be an regular old x-ray. That may be all that is needed. If a meniscal, ligament or tendon injury is suspected then an MRI is more likely. An MRI may also be ordered if there is suspicion of a fracture that is not visible on the x-ray.

No and yes: As long as there is no fracture seen in the initial evaluation, conservative therapy (including pain relief, cold and hot therapy, wraps, physical therapy, an exercise rehab program, and more) is indicated. Your Doctors can help you with this. If the symptoms do not resolve in an appropriate time period or worsen, then an MRI is in your future.