What is the treatment for knee swelling?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My father is 50 years old. He has swelling in his left knee and some liquid is coming out of the knee. He consulted an orthopedic doctor and he prescribed some tests and medicine to him. Also, the doctor said his bones are weak. Please explain to me what should I know. Also, let me know whether my father is taking the right medicine or not. What should he do according to you and about the doctor's comment on weak bones? Also, how to cure that? Should he massage with a hot water bag or ice? I am attaching the photos of my father's knee and prescriptions. Please guide me to the next step.

Answered by Dr. Sumit Chawla

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

After seeing the clinical image (attachment removed to protect patient identity) it appears to be synovitis of the knee joint. At the age of 50, osteoarthritis is the most common cause of synovitis. It is not advisable to start with steroid small 6 mg tablet. Is your father having fever, sore throat, or any other symptoms apart from the knee joint swelling? An X-ray of the affected knee is required to confirm the diagnosis of osteoarthritis. If an X-ray is taken, then a comment can be made whether the bones are weak (osteoporosis) or not and decide on the course of treatment. Follow up with your father's X-ray knee joint for confirmation and discussion regarding treatment.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am attaching X-ray reports and other reports. Please explain to me the next course of action, as I have already attached the medication prescribed.

Answered by Dr. Sumit Chawla

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

He has osteoarthritis knee with synovitis(attachment removed to protect patient identity). It is difficult to comment on weak bone status in a 50-year-old male from a knee X-ray. BMD (bone mineral density test) is required to confirm that. The present line of treatment is a daily intake of calcium, and vitamin D after assessment of serum vitamin D levels and tablet Diacerein 50 mg twice a day. Currently, he should give rest to the knee for synovitis to subside and a course of anti-inflammatory medication such as Aceclofenac along with Omeprazole (proton pump inhibitors). Additional treatment in the form of Hyaluronic acid injection can be discussed. He should avoid squatting and sitting cross-legged. Exercises will be required to strengthen the quadriceps muscle, but they have to be started after the swelling subsides.

Thank you.

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Answered by Dr. Sumit Chawla

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team

June 12, 2016

July 26, 2023

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Prep / Recovery Guide

Knee Swelling and Osteoarthritis Prep and Recovery Guide

How it works

Knee swelling, often linked to osteoarthritis, requires careful management. This guide helps you understand the condition and what steps you can take.

Knee
Swelling

Diagnosed
Detail

Treatment
Management

Lifestyle
Adjustments

Strengthening
Exercises

Further
Care

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

Dr. Sumit Chawla

Orthopedician and Traumatology