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The structure of a joint
The structure of a joint

Joint swelling
Definition:
Soft tissue swelling in one or more joints. This can also refer to fluid in the joint, such as "water on the knee."
Alternative Names:
Swelling of a joint; Knee swelling; Toe swelling; Finger swelling; Hip swelling
Considerations:
Joint swelling may or may not occur along with joint pain.
Common Causes:


Home Care:
For unexplained soft tissue joint swelling, see a health care provider. Follow prescribed therapy in treating the underlying cause.
Call your health care provider if:
  • there is severe, unexplained joint pain, stiffness or swelling, especially if accompanied by other unexplained symptoms.


What to expect at your health care provider's office:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting joint swelling in detail may include:
  • location
    • Which joint is swollen?
    • Is it the big toe?
    • Are multiple joints swollen?
    • Is the jaw or neck swollen?
  • time pattern
    • When did the joint swelling develop?
    • Is it always present or off-and-on?
    • Is this the first time you have had swollen joints?
  • quality
    • How swollen is the area?
    • If you press over the swollen area with a finger, does it leave a dent after you take the finger away?
  • aggravating factors
    • What makes the swelling worse?
    • Is it any worse in the morning or at night?
    • Does exercise make it worse?
  • relieving factors
    • What make the swelling better?
    • Does elevating the affected body part make the swelling go down?
    • Is it better if you use an elastic wrap?
    • What home treatment have you tried?
      • How effective was it?
  • other
The physical examination will include a detailed examination of the affected joint(s).

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include: Intervention:
Physical therapy for muscle and joint rehabilitation may be recommended.

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider related to joint swelling, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.
Review Date: 5/26/2001
Reviewed By: Kevin B. Freedman, M.D., Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush-Presbyterian Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Health Network.

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