Knee pain/swelling medical therapy

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [2] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Saumya Easaw, M.B.B.S.[3]

Overview

Treatment of fluid in the knee depends on the underlying cause of the swelling. General measures such as rest, ice, and analgesics such as acetaminophen and NSAIDS are often recommended.

Medical therapy

Acute Pharmacotherapy for Knee pain/swelling involves the use of :-

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Joint medications
• Antibiotics

Conservative Therapy

Conservative therapy is the best modality of treatment

• Lifestyle changes
• Physical therapy
• Exercise

For knee pain that has just started:

• Rest and avoid activities that aggravate your pain, especially weight bearing activities.
• Apply ice. First, apply it every hour for up to 15 minutes. After the first day, apply it at least four times per day.
• Keep your knee raised as much as possible to bring any swelling down.
• Wear an ace bandage or elastic sleeve, which you can buy at most pharmacies. This may reduce swelling and provide support.
• Take acetaminophen for pain or ibuprofen for pain and swelling.
• Sleep with a pillow underneath or between your knees.

For knee pain related to overuse or physical activity:

• Always warm up before exercising and cool down afterward. Stretch your quadriceps and hamstrings.
• Avoid running straight down hills -- walk down instead.
• Bicycle or swim instead of run.
• Reduce the amount of exercise you do.
• Run on a smooth, soft surface, such as a track, instead of on cement.
• Lose weight if you are overweight. Every pound that you are overweight puts about 5 extra pounds of pressure on your knee cap when you go up and down stairs. Ask your health care provider for help losing weight.
• If you have flat feet, try special shoe inserts and rch supports (orthotics).
• Make sure your running shoes are made well, fit well, and have good cushioning.

Tips to relieve knee bursitis pain:

• Use ice three to four times a day for the first 2 or 3 days. Cover your knee with a towel and place ice on it for 15 minutes. Do not fall asleep while using ice. You can leave it on too long and get frostbite.
• Try not to stand forlong periods of time. If you must stand, do so on a soft, cushioned surface. Stand with an equal amount of weight on each leg.
• When you sleep, do not lie on the side that has bursitis. Place a pillow between your knees when you lie on your side to help decrease your pain.
• Wear flat sho es that are cushioned and comfortable.
• If you are overweight, losing weight may help.