Introduction to Swollen Knees

A swollen knee joint (Picture 1) is a common symptom arising either from knee or other disorders. Knee swelling can originate from almost any structure forming the joint, like ligaments, synovial membrane, bursae, etc., or from fluid accumulating within the knee, such as blood or pus. A swollen knee, for example from knee effusion, is not always painful. Though all knee swellings do not require urgent treatment, there are a few conditions, like septic arthritis, in which lack of prompt treatment can cause lifelong disability. Hence, it is always better to consult a physician or orthopedist, to find the exact cause of knee swelling.

Picture 1: Swollen left knee
(source: Wikimedia)

continue reading Swollen Knee – Causes and Treatment

Swollen joints (joint effusion) are usually a clearly visible enlargement of the joint with swelling often caused by fluid accumulation.  A joint swelling may affect the small joints of the hands and fingers or that of the foot and legs or the larger joints like the wrist, elbow, shoulder, knee and ankle. Most noticeable joint swellings affect the hinged joints and ball and socket joints.

continue reading Swollen Joints – Causes & Treatment of Joint Swelling