What should you know about swelling around knee cap?

A soft swelling directly over the kneecap can occur with knee bursitis, especially after repeated kneeling or pressure. Fullness behind or around the joint may be related to a Baker's cyst or an effusion. A twist, sudden change of direction, locking, or giving way can occur with a meniscus tear or ACL tear. Gradual stiffness and activity-related discomfort can occur with knee osteoarthritis. A hot, red, rapidly painful knee can occur with gout, but infection and other inflammatory causes also need consideration.

Knee swelling is a symptom, not proof of one condition. Note whether the swelling appeared immediately or later, whether the knee bends fully, and whether there is fever or an injury.

Pause running, jumping, kneeling, and other activities that increase symptoms. Rest the leg in a comfortable position, use a wrapped cold pack for short periods, and elevate it when resting. Keep gentle movement within an easy range rather than holding the knee completely still. Do not massage a hot, newly swollen knee. If swelling limits bending, walking, or sleep, arrange an examination; a clinician may decide whether imaging or joint aspiration is appropriate.

Get urgent medical help for severe pain, a visibly deformed knee, inability to bear weight, a locked joint, a cold or numb foot, fever with a hot red knee, or sudden calf swelling with breathlessness or chest pain. Seek prompt assessment after a significant twist or impact, especially if the knee repeatedly gives way.

Ask whether the swelling is in the bursa or inside the joint, what examination or scan is useful, and which exercises are suitable. Ask how to return to running and whether fluid removal could help if the knee is tense.