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Cures for Water on the Knee

Water on the knee, also called hydrarthrosis or knee effusion, is an accumulation of fluid in the joint that may result from direct trauma during sports or repetitive stress from excessive exercise. In some cases, water on the knee may be caused by a chronic health condition. Treatment should be based on the root cause. Preventive measures and routine health care can help decrease re-occurrence.

  1. Injuries

    • Injury or damage to the knee from impact can cause fluid to accumulate in the joint. A break to one of the leg bones, such as the femur, patella or upper portion of the tibia or fibula may result in water on the knee. Meniscus or ligament tears within the knee joint often cause swelling around the knee. Overuse injuries from excessive exercise or overtraining may contribute to fluid build-up.

    Conditions

    • Chronic medical conditions including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout can contribute to knee swelling, according to Mayo Clinic. Bursitis or a localized infection in the knee joint may also result in excessive fluid surrounding the joint. In rare cases, a cyst or tumor may be the root cause. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons reports Lyme disease often affects the knee joint causing swelling and pain. Finding the cause is important to receive appropriate treatment.

    Treatment

    • Water on the knee should be treated like other inflammatory injuries. Rest, icing the joint every 20 minutes and elevating the knee above the heart is recommended to reduce swelling. You should seek medical attention for further evaluation. Anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended and should be used as directed. Your physician may order an X-ray, MRI and blood tests. Fluid may be aspirated to check for infection or bleeding disorders.

    Prevention

    • Allow joint swelling to resolve before resuming exercise or sport activities. When the injury is healed, choose low impact or non-weight bearing activities. Weight loss may help reduce stress on the knee joint. Cross-training is suggested to prevent overuse injuries that affect the knee. Strengthening exercises, such as leg extensions, are beneficial and help stabilize the knee. If a medical condition is the cause of swelling, seek routine care as recommended by your physician.

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