Causes and risk factors
Knee effusion results due to traumatic injury to the knee or due to some underlying disease such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, infection, gout, pseudogout, kneecap bursitis, cysts, tumours or overuse of knee joint such as excessive exercise, squatting, climbing, cycling etc.
Clinical presentation
Knee pain, swelling, stiffness of the joint, difficulty in using the joint, warmth on touch are some of the presenting features.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the orthopaedic doctor helps in diagnosis. Routine blood tests, X ray of the joint, MRI, CT scan help in further evaluation. USG of the joint also reveals some signs of pseudogout. Arthroscopy and Arthrocentesis [examination of synovial fluid from affected joint] help in confirming diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the underlying cause. Medications like Analgesics, NSAIDs, and Intra articular steroid injections help in treating knee effusion. Fluid tapping is done to aspirate and analyse the fluid accumulated in the joint. Supportive care is given to prevent further infection. Surgical intervention includes total knee replacement in case of severe damage to the joint.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating Water on knee. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating Water on knee.
