Knee Swelling Remedies

Knee Swelling

Knee swelling is painful. It is due to the accumulation of fluid inside the knee. The fluid accumulation can be a result of an injury. The knee often looks enlarged and red. Plus, the knee or the area surrounding it feels warm to the touch. If you experience any swelling in the knee, here are some remedies that may work for you.

Get off your feet. Your knee does not need the additional stress so take a load off. Lie down and elevate your affected knee. You can use a pillow or cushion to prop up your swollen knee. Knee swelling can be reduced if the knee is higher than the heart. Propping up the knee also promotes fluid drainage.

Apply an ice pack. Cold therapy can help reduce knee swelling. Get an ice pack and place it on top of your swollen knee. Keep it there for 15 – 20 minutes. Do this at least 4 times during the day for 2 days. What the cold does is it slows down the movement of the fluid in your knee. It also numbs your nerves in the affected area thus reducing pain.

Use mobility aids. If you have nothing important to do the whole day, then don’t walk around. However, if you do need to be mobile, use crutches or other types of mobility aids to help get you to where you need to go.

Take a pill. Ask your doctor what type of medications you can take in order to reduce the pain and the swelling. Ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen and paracetamol are often prescribed.

Wear a compression bandage. A compression bandage is worn when you are ready to use your knee. This will provide mild support for the knee. Some wear a knee brace that provides greater support. The brace limits knee movement.

Knee swelling is common in people who are physically active. It can swell due to a number of reasons. It is easy to treat a swelling knee. If you ever suffer from a swelling knee, all you need to remember is R.I.C.E. This stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. If no improvement occurs, make sure to see your doctor for medical attention.