A joint effusion in the knee, also known as a swollen knee, is the accumulation of excess fluid within or around the knee joint. Health care providers might refer to this condition as an effusion in your knee joint. According to the provided reference, this swelling can result from trauma, overuse injuries, or underlying diseases or conditions.
Understanding Knee Joint Effusion
Here's a breakdown of what that means:
- Joint: A joint is where two or more bones meet. The knee joint connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia).
- Effusion: Effusion refers to the escape of fluid into a body cavity. In the case of the knee, it's fluid accumulation within the joint capsule or surrounding tissues.
In simpler terms, a joint effusion in the knee means there's too much fluid where it shouldn't be within your knee. This excess fluid causes swelling and can limit movement.
Causes of Knee Effusion
The reference points to several potential causes:
- Trauma: This could include a direct blow to the knee or a sudden twisting injury.
- Overuse Injuries: Repetitive motions or activities can irritate the knee joint, leading to fluid buildup.
- Underlying Diseases or Conditions: Conditions like arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.), infections, or gout can also cause knee effusions.
