What should you know about soft tissue edema knee?

Swelling may feel puffy, tight, heavy or tender and can limit bending. It may follow a knock, overuse, procedure, insect bite or prolonged standing. Skin redness, warmth and pain raise concern for inflammation or infection, while itchy raised areas may occur with hives. Sudden swelling of the knee and other areas can occur with angioedema.

Soft tissue edema is not the same as fluid inside the joint, although both can make movement uncomfortable. A clinician may check the skin, circulation, range of motion and nearby joints to identify the source. The swelling’s timing, speed of change and accompanying symptoms are useful clues.

After a minor injury, rest from painful activity and use a wrapped cold pack for short periods if it feels helpful. Elevate the leg when resting and avoid tight clothing or massage over an unexplained, hot or painful swelling. Keep track of changes in size, colour, tenderness and movement.

Arrange an assessment if swelling persists, returns, follows an operation, or makes walking difficult. Treatment may involve addressing an injury, inflammation, allergy or infection rather than treating fluid alone. Do not start compression if circulation is uncertain or the skin is infected.

Get urgent help for rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, a hot red area with fever, inability to bear weight, numbness, a pale or blue foot, or swelling after a significant injury. Seek emergency help for facial or tongue swelling, breathing trouble, faintness or widespread allergic symptoms.

Is the fluid in the skin, soft tissue or knee joint? What examination or scan is appropriate? Should I use cold therapy, elevation or compression? Which symptoms would suggest cellulitis, hives or angioedema, and how soon should I be reviewed?