Am I At Risk Of Getting A Swollen Knee?

Do you often engage in outdoor recreational activities?

Do you play sports (basketball) occasionally?

Are you engage in high-impact sports, repetitive jumping, or running?

Do you have a torn ligament or cartilage (meniscus)?

Do you have a broken bone?

Do you have a bacterial infection (e.g. septic arthritis, reactive arthritis - Reiter’s syndrome)?

Do you have prepatellar bursitis (an inflammation of the bursa in the front of the kneecap)?

Do you have osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis?

Do you have gout or pseudogout?

Do you have a cyst or a tumor in your knee (e.g.Baker's cyst)?

Do you have Osgood-Schlatter disease (inflammation of the patellar tendon in the knee)?

Based on your answers you have a low risk of getting a swollen knee. A swollen knee occurs when excess fluid collects within the knee joint. It can result from an injury, chronic overuse of the joint or some diseases. A swollen knee can be a minor discomfort, but also a disabling condition. Mild forms of a swollen knee often occur in people who play sports that involve twisting the knees like basketball. It is also common in people who are involved in outdoor recreational activities. A swollen knee can be obvious, but sometimes it can be noticed only when you compare the affected knee with the other.

Based on your answers you have a moderate risk of getting a swollen knee. Swelling in the knee joint can occur as a result of damage to any part of the knee, including a torn ligament, a cartilage tear, a broken bone or irritation from the excessive use. An injury to the bones and soft tissues of the knee can cause swelling that is usually painful, red and warm to the touch. In minor injuries, fluid accumulates within the knee joint, while in more serious ones, blood can flood the knee joint, resulting in significant swelling, bruising and stiffness of the joint.

Based on your answers you have a high risk of getting a swollen knee. A swollen knee is usually caused by an injury or some pre-existing chronic health condition. Different types of arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout) are common causes of swollen knees. Degeneration of the knee joint cartilage can lead to excessive production of joint fluid and the development of swelling. You can reduce the risk of knee swelling if you strengthen the muscles around the knee. Strong muscles will take the pressure off the knee joint itself. Being overweight also contributes to wear and tear damage to the knee joint and easier swelling.