Knee Swelling & Morning Pain

According to the Mayo Clinic, nearly one in three Americans older than age 45 report some type of knee pain. Often times, swelling will accompany the pain and its severity depends on the type of knee injury you have. With some injuries and conditions you may experience more pain first thing in the morning than you do throughout the day.

Causes

• Your knee may swell for a number of reasons including tendonitis, meniscus injuries, bursitis, dislocated knee cap, septic and rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout and Osgood-Schlatter disease.

Arthritis

• Arthritis is a common cause of knee swelling and pain. A symptom of arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis, is morning pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, aching and stiffness in the knee, especially when you get up in the morning or after periods of inactivity, indicates rheumatoid arthritis.

The Rice Method

• To treat swelling and pain in the knee, you should use the RICE method: Rest the knee, Ice it, Compress the swelling with a knee brace or bandage, and Elevate the knee whenever you sit or lie down to prevent fluid buildup.

Medications

• Over-the-counter medications can help relieve pain and swelling such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), according to the Mayo Clinic.

Tip

• See a doctor immediately if your knee is extremely swollen or deformed-looking, is red, you cannot put weight on it, the swelling and pain is worsening, you have a fever and the knee is swollen and warm, or your home treatment is not making the symptoms subside.