Obviously I do not have water on top my knee, so why did my physician tell me I have water on the knee? - The term "water on the knee" is a generic term that describes the accumulation of excess fluid (edema) in or around the knee joint. Underlying issues like arthritis, trauma, or overuse are a few reasons why you may have "water on the knee".

We are sure you may be curious about what this term means, although you may have heard it somewhere before...The term "water on the knee" is a generic term that describes the accumulation of excess fluid (edema) in or around the knee joint. As a result of a trauma, overuse, or other underlying conditions or disease, water on the knee may exist.

Arthritis is often times an underlying condition when a person has "water on the knee". The term arthritis means "joint inflammation". People also refer to arthritis as being "joint pain" as well. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA), which affects over 27 million people a year (mostly women), while rheumatoid arthritis (RA) effects over two million adults, most of them being women over the age of 45. Although these two types of arthritis affect millions of people, and are the two most common types of arthritis, there are over 100 different types of arthritis.

When an individual has water on the knee, pain relief can occur when the fluid is removed from the joint. Pain can return when the fluid returns to the knee joint. It is always important to see your physician regarding this procedure.

You also may have "water on the knee" due a traumatic injury. Fluid or blood can accumulate in the knee joint as a result of a meniscus tear or ligament injury. Moreover, when an individual suffers an ACL tear, they may have also torn small blood vessels which can cause fluid to accumulate in and around their knee joint. Prepatellar bursitis can also cause water on the knee.

To avoid having water on the knees, individuals should consider seeing their physician on a regular basis, to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is also important to make sure individuals are avoiding activities that result in physical contact with their knees. Pain medications, such as Acetaminophen, can help to reduce swelling (see your physician before taking medications). Weight management can also take the stress off of your joints, which could result in water on the knees. Ice and elevation of your legs can also help to reduce the fluid build up.

If you have irritating pain or instability in your knee, and want to do something about it, you should consider these aforementioned options; they can be of service to you. A useful adjunct in your care should involve the use of a low profile knee brace. Knee braces have been proven to decrease knee pain, and increase knee stability. These knee braces can be worn during exercise or activities of daily living to provide the meaningful support you need.