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Remedy for Water on the Knee

Water on the knee refers to excess fluid buildup in your knee joint. It is often caused by an injury, an overuse of the joint, or a condition such as osteoarthritis. You will likely experience pain in the joint, especially when you do not rest it. Your knee may look swollen and inflamed. To determine a diagnosis, your doctor may need to take an X-ray, an MRI or a blood test or to draw out the fluid and test it for abnormalities.

  1. Underlying Causes

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, the method of treatment often depends on the cause of the condition. If your water on the knee is caused by osteoarthritis, your doctor may drain the fluid from your knee and may also give you a corticosteroid injection for the inflammation. Water on the knee can also be caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint, which occurs with gout. Your doctor may prescribe additional medications to treat the gout, as well as give you a corticosteroid injection. Water on the knee may also be associated with an infection, in which case the knee will be drained and you will be prescribed antibiotics.

    Activity

    • Rest your knee as often as possible. If your water on the knee is caused by trauma or injury because of an activity you repeat often, cease that activity. Rest with a cushion propping up your knee, keeping it elevated above your heart. This will help reduce the inflammation. While resting, place an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas on your knee for up to twenty minutes every couple of hours. When you do need to move around, wear a knee brace to reduce the stress on that joint.

    Medications

    • Take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, such as ibuprofen, to relieve the inflammation and reduce the pain. Follow the dosing instructions on the label. You can also discuss stronger pain medications with your doctor if over-the-counter medications do not help.

    Dimethyl Sulfoxide

    • Another treatment to try is dimethyl sulfoxide, or DMSO. DMSO is available in some pharmacies, as well as from some on-line stores. DMSO encourages healing and reduces inflammation. DMSO is only to be applied topically; it should never be ingested. Dilute DMSO to a concentration of 70 percent DMSO, 30 percent distilled water. Wear thick rubber gloves when applying, as DMSO penetrates through materials and tissues easily. Apply DMSO with a wad of absorbent cotton or cloth and allow it to dry. Apply DMSO three times per day for up to three days, after which you should discontinue use if there is no improvement. If your knee does improve, continue applying twice a day, then once a day, for three days each. DMSO will cause a garlic-like taste in your mouth; this is a normal, harmless side effect. If you are pregnant, do not use DMSO without discussing it with your doctor. Keep in mind that the FDA has only approved the use of DMSO for treating interstitial cystitis.

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