Knees swell when excess fluid collects in or around the knee joint. This condition, also known as knee effusion, can result from a variety of factors, including trauma, overuse injuries, or underlying medical conditions.
Causes of Knee Swelling
Several factors can contribute to fluid buildup in the knee:
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Injuries:
- Ligament Tears: Tears to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), or lateral collateral ligament (LCL) can cause bleeding and inflammation, leading to swelling.
- Meniscus Tears: Damage to the cartilage (meniscus) in the knee can also trigger swelling.
- Fractures: Bone fractures around the knee joint can cause fluid to accumulate.
- Direct Trauma: A direct blow to the knee can result in swelling.
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Overuse:
- Repetitive Motions: Activities like running, jumping, or cycling, especially if performed with incorrect form or excessive intensity, can irritate the knee joint and lead to swelling.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint) can cause swelling.
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Underlying Medical Conditions:
- Osteoarthritis: This degenerative joint disease causes cartilage breakdown, leading to inflammation and swelling.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the joint lining (synovium), resulting in swelling.
- Gout: A type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint, leading to inflammation and swelling.
- Infections: Infections in the knee joint (septic arthritis) can cause significant swelling, pain, and redness.
- Tumors: In rare cases, tumors around the knee joint can cause swelling.
What Happens When Your Knee Swells?
When the knee swells, you might experience:
- Pain: The severity of pain can range from mild discomfort to intense throbbing.
- Stiffness: The knee may feel stiff and difficult to bend or straighten.
- Decreased Range of Motion: The ability to move the knee fully may be limited.
- Tenderness: The area around the knee may be sensitive to touch.
- Visible Swelling: The knee may appear larger than usual, and the surrounding skin might be stretched or shiny.
What to Do About a Swollen Knee
If you experience knee swelling, it's crucial to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
- RICE Therapy: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation can help reduce swelling and pain in mild cases.
- Medications: Pain relievers (over-the-counter or prescription) and anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve range of motion.
- Aspiration: Draining the excess fluid from the knee joint can provide temporary relief.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged ligaments, cartilage, or bones.
In conclusion, knee swelling occurs due to fluid accumulation in or around the knee joint, typically caused by injuries, overuse, or underlying medical conditions. Seeking prompt medical attention is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
