Specialist physiotherapists with specific training in joint aspiration, alongside other qualified healthcare professionals, can drain a knee.
Knee draining, also known as knee aspiration or arthrocentesis, involves removing fluid from the knee joint. This procedure is typically performed to relieve pain and pressure caused by excess fluid build-up, diagnose the cause of the fluid accumulation, or inject medication into the joint.
Here's a breakdown of who is typically qualified to perform this procedure:
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Physicians:
- Orthopedic Surgeons: Specialists in musculoskeletal conditions, including knee problems.
- Rheumatologists: Specialists in joint diseases, such as arthritis.
- General Practitioners (GPs): Some GPs may perform knee aspirations, particularly if they have specialized training in musculoskeletal medicine.
- Emergency Medicine Physicians: In cases of acute knee swelling due to injury or infection, emergency physicians may perform aspiration.
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Physiotherapists:
- Specialist soft tissue and joint injection physiotherapists: As highlighted in the provided reference, these physiotherapists have undergone advanced training in joint aspiration and injection techniques. They can perform knee aspirations to relieve excess fluid buildup in a swollen joint.
Reasons for Knee Draining (Arthrocentesis):
- Diagnosis: To analyze the fluid for infection, crystals (gout or pseudogout), or blood (injury).
- Therapeutic Relief: To reduce pressure and pain caused by excess fluid.
- Medication Injection: Often combined with injecting corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid for pain relief and improved joint function.
Important Considerations:
- The individual performing the knee aspiration should have proper training and experience.
- The procedure should be performed under sterile conditions to minimize the risk of infection.
- Patients should discuss the risks and benefits of knee aspiration with their healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure.
