Joint Swelling

INTRODUCTION

Joint swelling is the excess accumulation of fluid in soft tissues around a joint. Joint swelling is often accompanied with joint pain. The joint appears large and abnormally shaped in joint swelling.

CAUSES

Joint swelling is not a disease in itself, but is a symptom of various other diseases. Some of them are as under:

• Gout

• Arthritis

• Ankylosing spondylitis

• Systemic lupus erythematosus

• Injury

HOW TO RESOLVE?

The joint swelling can be reduced by applying ice packs, when it is due to an injury. The swollen joint should be raised above the level of heart, e.g. if ankle joint is swollen, it can be raised by putting cushion under the feet while the patient is lying comfortably in bed.

In case of joint swelling due to an underlying disease, strict treatment plan should be followed as recommended by the doctor.