What You're Experiencing

Visible swelling around the knee joint, often with warmth, stiffness, and difficulty bending fully.

When to seek help: This symptom should be assessed by a physiotherapist within the next 1-2 weeks to prevent it from worsening.

Likely Causes

This symptom is commonly caused by one or more of the following conditions. A physiotherapist can identify the exact cause through a thorough assessment.

1 Osteoarthritis flare-up
2 Meniscus injury
3 ACL or ligament injury
4 Bursitis

What a Physiotherapist Will Do

1. Assessment

Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough examination including movement tests, palpation, and posture analysis to identify the root cause of your swollen knee.

2. Diagnosis

Based on the assessment, they'll explain which of the likely causes applies to you and discuss the best treatment approach.

3. Treatment

Treatment typically combines hands-on therapy for immediate relief with targeted exercises to address the underlying cause. Most patients notice improvement within 2-4 sessions.

4. Home Programme

You'll receive specific exercises and advice to continue your recovery at home, helping you get better faster between sessions.

Related Conditions & Treatments

Learn more about the conditions and treatments related to this symptom:

condition Knee Pain → condition ACL Injury → condition Osteoarthritis →

Helpful Articles

Knee Brace Vs Physiotherapy →Best Exercises Knee Pain →Meniscus Tear Surgery Vs Physio →Acl Recovery Timeline →

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use ice or heat for a swollen knee?

Ice is better for acute swelling — apply for 15 minutes every 2-3 hours. Elevate the leg and gently compress with a bandage. If swelling persists beyond a few days, see a physiotherapist to identify the cause.

Should I apply ice or heat to a swollen knee?

Apply ice for the first 48-72 hours to reduce swelling (15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours). After swelling subsides, heat can help improve blood flow and healing. A physiotherapist can advise on the best approach for your specific situation.

Can I walk with a swollen knee?

Gentle walking is usually okay if pain allows, but avoid stairs and uneven surfaces. Use RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) initially. If swelling persists beyond a few days, get assessed by a physiotherapist.