Top

Reasons and Remedies for Swollen Knees

August 6, 2009


There are a lot of reasons that may cause the knee joint to swell up, such as playing sports which involve continuous running, a fall directly on the knee or excess body weight which puts a lot of pressure on the knees. Some causes are not serious and can easily be treated at home, whereas others are serious and will require medical attention. The swelling is usually caused by excess fluid that collects around the knee cap which actually is a protective mechanism of the body.

Whenever there is an injury to the knee, the brain sends a signal which causes the fluid to collect around the joint to provide a natural cushion. If your knee is swollen, the first thing to do is to rest it. Avoid walking or standing for too long. If you need to be present at an important event, make sure to wear shoes which provide maximum comfort. Lie down with your knee elevated for most parts of the day. Use at least 2 to 3 pillows as the knee needs to be higher than the pelvis. When falling asleep at night, rest your leg flat without any elevation. Use an ice pack on your knee every few hours. A hot water bag will not help ease the swelling and might actually do the reverse. Its simple science we’ve all learnt in early school, heat expands and cold contracts.

Try rubbing essential oils such as chamomile, eucalyptus or clove oils on your knee, using gentle strokes. These help in reducing swelling. Drinking herbal tea will also help. Include celery and parsley in your everyday food intake, as these foods help in draining the body of excess fluids. Wear special knee support stockings during the day. These help provide additional support to the joint.

If the cause is nothing serious, the above the remedies will help ease the swelling. Take care of your knee even after the swelling eases; keep wearing the knee support stockings when running or when you need to stand for long periods. If after 2 days, you notice no change, please visit your doctor. The knee joint plays a very important role in keeping us mobile and any pain or swelling should not be ignored.


Comments

Got something to say? Join the conversation and leave a comment below.





What's More today?

How To Help Your Dry Scalp When It Itches

It is mostly during winter that most people complain of dryness and itching sensation on the skin. If... 

How Does Exercise Help Children Do Better In School

Yes, it is perfectly right. Exercise does help children to do better in academics and school. It  has... 

Best Ways to Maintain Your Slim Figure

There are a million people around the globe that are engaged in the battle of the bulge almost daily.... 

Tricks that Help to Get Rid of a Nasal Voice

A nasal voice is not the most appealing tones to hear. This becomes an issue when you are talking over... 

Health Benefits and Nutritional Quotient of Cloves

As a child I wondered why my mother used dark colored pieces of wood and stone like substances in our... 

What Do You Gain When You Drink Coconut Water Daily

Break open a tough coconut and you will get some deliciously healthy water. Coconuts are commonly used... 

Tell Me About The Various Aspects of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is very easily treatable when it is detected in the early stages. An early aggressive... 

How to Decrease Appetite in Order to Loose Weight and Be Fit

We are all after our ideal weight. It is a goal that most of us try to attain and try for as long as... 

How to Take Care of Hands

Your hands; like your feet are tortured all day long. If your feet are responsible for taking on the... 

How Can Food Help A Person With Arthritis

A person with arthritis may benefit a lot by taking a suitable diet along with the medications. It is... 

Rheumatoid Arthritis – Age And Cures

Rheumatoid Arthritis has been known for a long time and there is a general feeling that it affects only... 

Are there any Benefits to Eating Beef?

Beef is the meat of domesticated cattle like cows. It is generally known as red meat and is used commonly... 

How Can Breast Cancer Patients Lead A Normal Life

Most people who are affected by breast cancer think it is the end of the world and that they have to... 

How Does Exercise Help In Getting Over Diabetes

Many people are of the opinion that popping in a pill or taking a shot of insulin along with a sugar... 

Easy Remedies to Lower Blood Cholesterol Count Naturally

Increase in the levels of blood cholesterol leads to an increased risk of heart diseases like attacks,... 

Bottom