Fat pad swelling in the knee

A fat pad is soft tissue that cushions and fills space around the knee. Irritation can cause pain at the front of the knee, tenderness beside the kneecap, discomfort when the knee is fully straight, or pain after repeated running, jumping or kneeling. Visible swelling may instead be fluid inside or around the joint. A clinician considers the injury, location, warmth, movement and stability. ACL Tear, Meniscus Tear, Knee Bursitis, Baker's Cyst, Gout and Knee Osteoarthritis are different conditions that can produce knee swelling and need different care.

Reduce the activity that triggers pain and use comfortable knee movement rather than prolonged complete rest. Ice wrapped in cloth may ease symptoms for a short period. Do not massage a hot, acutely swollen knee or force it through pain. Arrange assessment if swelling persists or follows a twist. The clinician may recommend rehabilitation, activity changes or treatment for the underlying cause. Joint Aspiration may be considered when fluid needs to be removed or tested; it is not appropriate for every type of swelling.

Seek urgent assessment for a hot red knee with fever, sudden severe pain, inability to bear weight, a locked joint, major injury, rapidly increasing swelling, or a pale, cold or numb foot. Prompt review is also sensible when the knee repeatedly gives way, swelling returns after activity, or movement is becoming more limited.

Ask whether the swelling is in the fat pad or joint, what examination or imaging is needed, which activities to pause, whether fluid should be tested, and which signs should trigger urgent review.