How to Reduce Knee Swelling

Swelling in the knee can be a frustrating symptom, especially when it begins to limit mobility and interfere with simple daily tasks. For many, this swelling is a result of overuse or minor injuries, such as a sprain or strain. However, when swelling persists or becomes chronic, it may be a sign of an underlying condition like osteoarthritis (OA), the most common type of arthritis. 

Knee osteoarthritis works by gradually wearing down the joint cartilage; as it begins to thin, bone-to-bone friction leads to inflammation and fluid buildup in the knee. As a result, noticeable swelling and discomfort will follow, and the pain can be difficult to treat and manage. 

In this blog, we’ll cover effective strategies to reduce knee swelling, examine how osteoarthritis contributes to this issue, and highlight treatment options like genicular artery embolization (GAE), an innovative and minimally invasive procedure that American Knee Pain Centers specializes in. 

Quick Ways to Reduce Knee Swelling at Home

Knee swelling may begin as a minor annoyance, but if left unmanaged, it can quickly become a major barrier, causing pain and limiting mobility in daily activities. Luckily, there are effective ways for you to help reduce this swelling and bring immediate relief, including:

The RICE Method

Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—is a widely recommended approach for providing immediate relief to patients experiencing knee swelling. This effective strategy helps reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort, making it a go-to solution for many.

Anti-inflammatory Medications 

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, can help alleviate some pain and inflammation in the knee. However, long-term use should be discussed with a healthcare provider to avoid any serious side effects.

These solutions can act as a good starting point for alleviating your swelling and discomfort. If you start to notice persistent or worsening symptoms, getting checked out by a medical professional may be necessary. 

How Osteoarthritis Causes Knee Swelling

Osteoarthritis can cause knee swelling through inflammation and joint degeneration. As the cartilage wears down, exposed bone irritates the area, triggering the release of inflammatory chemicals that increase blood flow and fluid buildup, resulting in swelling, warmth, and reduced range of motion. Bone spurs (osteophytes) may also form as the body compensates for cartilage loss, further irritating tissues and compressing the joint. The severity of swelling depends on the stage of osteoarthritis and activity levels, with more advanced OA and certain activities often leading to more pronounced swelling and flare-ups.

When to Consider Medical Treatment for Knee Swelling

While home remedies can be helpful, ongoing swelling may require professional intervention. Here are signs that it may be time to consult a knee pain specialist:

• Swelling that doesn’t improve after several days of rest
• Sharp or persistent knee pain
• Redness and warmth in the joint, which could indicate an infection
• Decreased range of motion or joint instability

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) for Chronic Knee Swelling

For those with persistent knee swelling that doesn’t respond to conservative methods, GAE is a breakthrough alternative that provides long-term relief without the need for knee replacement surgery.

What is Genicular Artery Embolization?

GAE is a minimally invasive procedure that targets the blood vessels supplying the knee. During the procedure, an interventional radiologist inserts a catheter into the genicular arteries, which deliver blood to the knee joint. By selectively blocking these arteries, GAE decreases blood flow to the knee, reducing inflammation and fluid buildup that causes swelling.

Benefits of GAE

Compared to knee replacement surgery, GAE offers several distinct benefits:

• Same-Day Procedure: Most patients can return home the same day.
• Short Recovery Time: Unlike surgical options, GAE has a short recovery period, allowing patients to resume daily activities quickly.
• Fewer Complications: Because GAE is a minimally invasive procedure, it poses fewer risks and complications than traditional knee surgeries.
• Symptom Relief for Up to Three Years: Many patients experience significant improvement in knee swelling, pain, and mobility for one to three years post-procedure.

GAE allows patients to regain knee function and improve their range of motion while avoiding the prolonged recovery associated with knee replacement. For many individuals, this procedure can be a viable long-term solution to osteoarthritis-related swelling and pain.

Lifestyle Adjustments to Support Knee Health

In addition to medical treatments like GAE, lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce knee swelling and support joint health. Maintaining a healthy weight helps decrease the load on the knee joint, minimizing stress and inflammation. Low-impact exercises like swimming and cycling improve joint flexibility and strength without aggravating the knee. A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, including fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, can further reduce joint inflammation. Wearing supportive footwear with proper arch support also helps alleviate strain on the knee. When combined with treatments like GAE, these strategies can effectively manage osteoarthritis symptoms and help maintain knee mobility.

Take the First Step Toward Relieving Knee Swelling

If you’re experiencing chronic knee swelling from osteoarthritis, American Knee Pain Centers is here to help. Our team of skilled specialists offers personalized care and advanced treatments, including GAE, to effectively manage knee pain, reduce swelling, and help you restore mobility and regain control of your life. Please call American Endovascular today to schedule an appointment, or conveniently book online to take the first step towards a more active, pain-free life!