Knee joints are prone to the buildup of extra fluid which is a condition commonly known as water on the knee. This condition is often the result of a traumatic injury or from overusing your knee joint. Other medical conditions can trigger this buildup of fluids.
In order to receive a proper diagnosis of the fluid buildup, a doctor will need to take a sample of the fluid and have it tested. The fluid sample can determine what conditions are present in the knee. For instance, if crystals are found in the fluid gout may be present in your knee. Fluid may also contain bacteria which points to an infection. If blood is found in the fluid, it will indicate a possible traumatic injury.
Water on the knee can cause stiff feelings in the knee. Pain can also be present. A medical diagnosis must first be determined before treatment can be started. Stiffness and swelling that doesn’t go away can signal water in the knee. The knee may also feel warm and become red.
Some of the underlying medical conditions that may trigger water on the knee in addition to gout include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, bursitis, cysts, and tumors. Typically the condition happens to people over the age of 55, those who are obese, and those that are involved in sports where quick movements are necessary.
Water on the knee needs to be treated promptly. If left untreated, the condition can lead decreased mobility. When infection is present and left untreated, the joint can be destroyed and pain can become serious.
Treatment for water on the knee includes pain medication sold over the counter, antibiotics if infection is present, and anti-inflammatory drugs to control swelling. Aspiration of the fluid in the knee can keep pain levels down by removing the pressure of the fluid. Arthoscopic surgery should be done by a surgeon when traumatic knee injury occurs and repair work is necessary.
For more information on knee pain and injuries, read our FREE report – The Disability Guys’ Guide To Your Knees.
