What kind of doctor to see for injured knee

Hi all.  I did something to my knee a few days ago.  I did some squats and then later a long, leisurely walk at the zoo, and felt fine throughout, but late that night severe pain started in my knee.  The pain eased over the next few days, but I've had to take ibuprofen a few times.  Today the pain is suddenly worse and it looks like I've got a small cyst or some minor swelling just below my kneecap.  Since I've been taking it easy and this thing isn't getting better, I'm going to probably make an appt in a day or two, but I'm not sure what kind of doctor to see.  My insurance company's 'find a doc' page lists two specialties that might be right:  physical therapy and sports medicine.  There are also a few g.p.s, but they're pretty far away.  Any ideas who I should see?  Should I wait another few days before seeing anybody?  Thanks!

I would first go to your general doctor and get a referral.  They will know the best person to go to that also fits with your insurance plan.

A knee injury could take you anywhere from a physical therapist to a surgeon depending on the severity.

 If it's more convenient to see the specialists first I'd hit up the sports medicine doc first - the PT is someone you'll potentially see for rehab after the sports medicine person has ruled out injuries requiring casts, bandages or surgery ;)

Depending on your insurance, you might have to get a referral from a GP. But my daughter is an athletic trainer and I hear about these types of injuries from her. You definitely need the sports medicine or an orthopaedic doctor.

Orthopedic.

Thanks everyone!  It  turns out a local Sports Medicine Clinic that is supposedly pretty spiffy accepts my insurance.  I'm not sure what kind of doc I saw, but it's just some inflammation, no real injury, and I'm okay'ed to hike, walk on the treadmill, etc.  Squats and lunges are on hold until for another week, but I'm really pleased to be able to resume most of my normal routine.  I'm very pleased -- I was getting a little depressed thinking I was decrepit and decayed, but it turns out I'm fine.  Thanks again!