Knee pain or swelling is a common issue that affects people of all ages. It can result from injuries, overuse, or medical conditions like arthritis. Knee pain usually improves with self-care, but some cases may require clinical attention.
Common Causes of Knee Pain or Swelling
1. Injuries
- Sprains and Strains – Damage to muscles, ligaments, or tendons, often from sudden movements or overuse.
- Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL injury) – Common in sports, causing swelling and instability.
- Meniscus Tear – Damage to the cartilage that cushions the knee, often from twisting.
- Dislocated Kneecap – When the kneecap moves out of position, causing severe pain.
- Fractures – A broken bone in the knee, usually from a fall or accident.
2. Overuse and Lifestyle Factors
- Repetitive Activities – Running, jumping, or kneeling for long periods can cause irritation.
- Poor Posture or Weak Muscles – Can put extra strain on the knee joint.
- Being Overweight – Increases pressure on the knees, leading to pain.
3. Medical Conditions
- Osteoarthritis – Wear and tear of the knee joint, causing pain and stiffness.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis – An autoimmune disease that inflames the knee joint.
- Tendonitis – Inflammation of the tendons around the knee, often from sports.
- Bursitis – Inflammation of small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the knee.
- Gout – A build-up of uric acid crystals in the knee joint, causing sudden pain and swelling.
- Cellulitis – painful, hot, red, swollen skin caused by an infection which can spread.
Seek further NHS Advice if you think any of the above causes of Knee Pain apply to you. eg search “NHS Advice Bursitis“
Self-Care and Home Treatment
Most mild to moderate knee pain or swelling can be managed at home using the RICE method:
- Rest – Avoid activities that worsen the pain, but keep the knee moving gently.
- Ice – Apply an ice pack (wrapped in a towel) for 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours to reduce swelling.
- Compression – Use a knee support or elastic bandage to reduce swelling and provide stability.
- Elevation – Raise the knee when resting to help reduce swelling.
Other helpful treatments include:
- Pain Relief – Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Exercise and Stretching – Gentle knee exercises help strengthen muscles and improve movement.
- Weight Management – Losing weight can ease pressure on the knees.
- Supportive Footwear – Well-cushioned shoes reduce knee strain.
Help at the Pharmacy
Discuss your symptoms with a pharmacist who will advise, including when to see a doctor or a podiatrist. They can advise on pain and anti-inflammatory treatments where sprains, strains or knocks have occurred, and offer supporting bandages and elasticated supports tailored to fit knees.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical advice if you:
- Cannot put weight on your knee.
- Have red skin, hot-to-touch, or severe swelling.
- Feel your knee is unstable, clicking or locking.
- Have pain that lasts more than two weeks despite self-care.
- Experience fever along with knee pain (could indicate an infection).
Medical Treatment Options
If knee pain or swelling does not improve with self-care, a doctor may recommend:
- Physiotherapy – Strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and reduce strain.
- Knee Supports or Braces – To provide stability and support.
- Injections – Corticosteroid injections for pain relief in arthritis or inflammation.
- Surgery – Only needed in severe cases, such as for ligament tears or joint replacement.
Preventing Knee Pain
To reduce the risk of knee problems:
- Stay Active – Regular exercise strengthens the muscles that support the knee.
- Warm Up and Cool Down – Before and after exercise to prevent injuries.
- Use Proper Techniques – When running, lifting, or exercising to avoid strain.
- Take Breaks – Avoid prolonged kneeling or standing in one position.
- Manage Underlying Conditions – Such as arthritis, to prevent worsening pain.
Conclusion
Knee pain is common and often improves with simple self-care. However, if pain persists, worsens, or affects daily activities, medical advice should be sought to prevent further issues.