Have you noticed swelling, stiffness, and pain in your knee that is leaving you unable to partake in your everyday activities? If you have a tight swollen knee and are looking for physical therapy in NYC Midtown, we invite you to visit us at First Health Physical Therapy. Whether this is due to an injury or a condition, is it important that you take the necessary steps to treat it to return to your normal lifestyle? 

Causes of a Tight Swollen Knee

There is a wide variety of causes of a tight swollen knee, ranging from injuries to diseases and conditions. Whether you tore your ACL, broke a bone, or are suffering from arthritis, these are just a few examples of injuries and conditions that lead to your knee becoming tight and swollen. More examples of causes of a tight swollen knee are listed below:

• Broken Bones.
• Meniscus Tear.
• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis.
• Osteoarthritis.
• Gout.
• Infection.
• Bursitis.
• Tumors.
• Cysts.

Who is at the Highest Risk for a Tight Swollen Knee?

Regardless of who you are and what you do, there is always a risk of injuring your knee, resulting in tightness and swelling. You may also be at risk for certain conditions that can lead to knee tightness and swelling. However, specific risk factors heighten the chances of a tight swollen knee for certain groups of people. Some of these risk factors are listed below:

• Age: As we get older, the likelihood of developing arthritis increases. Arthritis is one of the most common causes of tightness and swelling in the knee. 
• Participation in Sports: Most sports include lots of twisting of the knee when making cuts and changing direction. The amount of stress placed on the knees and frequent cuts increases the risk of the knee twisting in a way that results in an injury. These injuries commonly cause tightness and swelling in the knee. Depending on the injury and its severity, there may be a long recovery process.
• Obesity: Too much excess weight places an unhealthy amount of stress on the knees, contributing to tissue and joint overload. This often leads to issues in the knee, including tightness and swelling.

Potential Complications

In many cases, a tight, swollen knee can lead to further complications. Two potential complications are described below:

• Muscle Loss: The knee fluid can harm the thigh muscles’ functioning. When these muscles aren’t used, they will weaken and deteriorate, a process known as atrophy.
• Baker Cyst (Fluid-Filled Sac): When fluid builds up, the risk of a Baker Cyst forming in the back of the knee increases. Swollen Baker Cysts can be painful but are usually removed with ice and compression, but when the swelling becomes severe, the fluid may need to be removed with a needle.

How to Treat a Tight Swollen Knee At Physical Therapy in NYC Midtown

It is important that you go to a doctor to find out what is causing your knee tightness and swelling to get the right treatment. At First Health Physical Therapy in NYC Midtown, we will guide you through the treatment and recovery process. Treatment methods vary depending on the cause of the tightness and swelling, so it is important to receive a proper diagnosis. Examples of common treatment methods are listed below:

• Physical Therapy.
• Rest.
• Ice and Elevation: Generally for 15-20 minutes every 2-4 hours, but the length can vary depending on the injury and its severity.
• Restriction: Wearing a knee brace.
• Compression: Bandage/wrap/sleeve.
• Over-The-Counter Pain Relief Medication.
• Surgery: When other treatments are ineffective.

Visit First Health Physical Therapy in NYC Midtown

Don’t let your tight swollen knee get in your way any longer. If you’re looking for physical therapy in NYC Midtown, contact First Health Physical Therapy Today.