Knee swelling can be caused by a minor injury, a major injury, arthritis, or bursitis. Additionally, knee swelling can be related to excess fluid in the knee joint, which can lead to decreased mobility and pain if not treated properly. Swelling in both knees could indicate a systemic medical condition such as rheumatoid arthritis. Most health professionals recommend resting the knee joint until the swelling subsides.
After the pain subsides, gradual movement can be resumed. Additionally, icing the knee up to four times a day can dramatically reduce swelling and relieve pain. Heat application is generally not recommended for knee inflammation because it can promote swelling. Infrequently, knee swelling can be caused by a joint or bone infection that will require antibiotic therapy and sometimes fluid drainage. In certain cases, the joint fluid will be drained and tested for blood and microbes.
Anti-inflammatory medications are also recommended to reduce knee pain and swelling, regardless of the cause. If arthritis is the cause of knee swelling, corticosteroid injections may be prescribed. Although effective for knee inflammation, corticosteroids can cause side effects such as irritation, weight gain, fluid retention, and swelling of the face.
People with inflammatory knee conditions who cannot tolerate anti-inflammatory medications can take acetaminophen. Although acetaminophen is helpful in reducing pain, it does not reduce inflammation. Analgesic ointments can also help reduce knee swelling and pain, and are generally well tolerated by most people.
When a knee injury occurs, diagnostic medical tests are recommended to determine the nature and severity of the injury. A conventional x-ray can detect an injury to the knee cap, but is generally not effective in detecting injuries to the cartilage, muscles, and tendons. In cases of serious crush injuries, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage. When a knee injury occurs, prompt medical evaluation and treatment usually results in a better prognosis.
Other treatments for knee arthritis or bursitis include weight control, physical therapy, and mild exercise. Excess weight puts stress on your knee joints, worsening pain and swelling, so losing weight helps minimize stress on your joints. Exercise also promotes blood flow and circulation, speeds healing, and promotes relaxation. A comprehensive physical therapy program can restore range of motion, mobility, and help decrease pain and swelling.