Knee swelling is a common and frustrating symptom of osteoarthritis and other underlying conditions caused by fluid buildup in or around the knee. This swelling, medically known as effusion, can cause discomfort, limit mobility, and interfere with daily activities.  Understanding why your knee is swollen is the first step towards effective treatment. Our team of experts can help you find the right solution, whether it is osteoarthritis, an injury or another condition. Non-invasive treatment can help alleviate chronic knee pain and help you regain the quality of life.

What is Knee Swelling?

Knee swelling happens when excess fluid builds up in or around your knee joint or surrounding tissues. You may notice your knee looking larger, feeling warm or tender and having  limited range of motion. The severity can vary from mild and temporary to severe and persistent, depending on the underlying condition, such as osteoarthritis.

How Osteoarthritis Causes Knee Swelling

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that gradually wears away the cartilage, the smooth, cushioning tissue that protects your joints. When cartilage breaks down, the bones in your joint rub against each other, causing swelling and pain in several ways:

1.  Inflammation

As cartilage deteriorates, the body responds with inflammation, producing extra synovial fluid to protect the joint. This excessive synovial fluid buildup can cause swelling, stiffness, and discomfort.

2. Cartilage Breakdown

When cartilage wears away, the bones in the joint rub against each other, irritating the surrounding tissues and triggering fluid accumulation.

3. Bone Spurs (Osteophytes)

To compensate for cartilage loss, your body may form bony growths called osteophytes. These spurs can irritate the surrounding tissues, leading to inflammation and swelling.

4. Joint Space Narrowing

As the cartilage thins, the space between the bones in your knee joint narrows. This increased friction can worsen inflammation and swelling over time.

Signs and Symptoms of Knee Swelling

• Visible Enlargement: The swollen knee appears larger compared to the other knee.
• Warmth or Redness: The knee may feel warm to the touch, indicating inflammation.
• Pain and Tenderness: Swelling often accompanies pain, especially during movement or weight-bearing activities.
• Reduced Mobility: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee due to stiffness.

Fluid Sensation: A feeling of “fullness” or “tightness” in the knee joint.

Impact of Knee Swelling on Daily Life

Knee swelling can significantly affect physical and emotional well-being. It may:

• Limit Mobility: Everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or bending become challenging.
• Disrupt Sleep: Swelling and discomfort may persist even at rest, causing sleep disturbances.
• Reduce Independence: Severe swelling can make it difficult to manage daily tasks without assistance.

Cause Emotional Strain: Persistent symptoms can lead to frustration, anxiety, or depression.

Diagnosing Knee Swelling Due to Chronic Knee Pain 

Diagnosing the underlying cause of knee swelling is crucial for effective treatment. Here’s how healthcare professionals typically approach this:

1. Medical History and Physical Exam

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, past injuries, and any underlying health conditions.

2. Imaging Tests

• X-rays: Provide a clear picture of your bones, helping to identify bone spurs or signs of cartilage damage.
• Ultrasound: Identifies fluid buildup and inflammation in the soft tissues around your knee joint.
• MRI: Offers a detailed view of your knee’s cartilage, ligaments, and tendons to confirm a diagnosis of osteoarthritis or other underlying conditions.

3. Laboratory Tests

Analyzing synovial fluid extracted from the knee can help rule out infections or other inflammatory conditions like gout or rheumatoid arthritis.

Treating Knee Swelling from Chronic Knee Pain

The goal of treatment for knee swelling is to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and restore joint function. Here are some common approaches:

1. Non-Surgical Treatments

• Medications: NSAIDs and corticosteroids help reduce inflammation and swelling.
• Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises stabilize the joint and improve mobility.
• Compression and Elevation: Wearing a knee brace or elevating the leg can alleviate swelling.

2. Advanced Treatment: Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a leading-edge, minimally invasive procedure that targets the root cause of knee swelling: inflammation. GAE reduces blood flow to the inflamed knee areas, relieving swelling, pain, and stiffness.

GAE: A Knee Replacement Alternative

GAE is a highly effective solution for patients seeking to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery.  It offers:

• Minimally Invasive Relief: No major surgery or lengthy recovery time.
• Long-Lasting Results: Significant symptom reduction lasting up to four years. 
• Preservation of the Joint: Retains the natural knee structure without prosthetics.
• Fast Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities within days.

Discover the Power of Movement Again with USA Pain Center!

If knee swelling from an underlying condition like osteoarthritis is holding you back, advanced treatments like Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) can provide the relief you need. At USA Pain Center, we specialize in innovative, minimally invasive solutions to help you live pain-free. Schedule your consultation today and discover the power of movement again with USA Pain Center!