Reducing Knee Pain and Swelling
Many treatments can help reduce pain and swelling in your knee. Your healthcare provider may suggest one or more of the following treatments:
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Icing your knee. This helps reduce swelling. You may be asked to ice your knee once a day or more. Apply ice for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time, with at least 40 minutes between sessions. To make an ice pack, put ice cubes in a plastic bag that seals at the top. Wrap the bag in a clean, thin towel or cloth. Never put ice or an ice pack directly on your skin.
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Keeping your leg raised up higher than your heart. This helps excess fluid flow out of your knee joint to reduce swelling.
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Compression. This means wrapping an elastic bandage or neoprene sleeve snugly around your knees. It keeps fluid from collecting in and around your knee joint.
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Electrical stimulation. This is done by a physical therapist or athletic trainer. It can help reduce excess fluid in your knee joint.
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Anti-inflammatory medicines. These may be prescribed by your healthcare provider. You may take pills or get shots (injections) in your knee.
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Isometric (contracting) exercises. These strengthen the muscles that support your knee joint. They also help reduce excess fluid in your knee.
Online Medical Reviewer:
L Renee Watson MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer:
Thomas N Joseph MD
Date Last Reviewed:
12/1/2021
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