How to reduce swelling from osteoarthritis

Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
Updated on April 21, 2025
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Patients with bone and joint issues experience joint swelling, which may be attributed to osteoarthritis accompanied by damage to the synovium, leading to synovitis and hence the swelling. Treatment for this condition should begin with rest. Individuals who are overweight should consider losing weight. Treatments can include hot packs, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications, drugs that nourish cartilage, and medications that improve blood circulation and remove blood stasis to aid recovery. Minor swelling or fluid accumulation can gradually be absorbed through these measures. In cases of significant fluid accumulation, surgery may be necessary. For the treatment of osteoarthritis, it is advised to visit an orthopedic clinic for comprehensive examinations like X-rays, CT scans, etc., and undergo standardized treatment. (Please use specific medications only under the guidance of a doctor, and do not medicate on your own.)

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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Difference between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis have clear differences. Osteoarthritis refers to the rupture, loss, and fissuring of joint cartilage caused by degeneration in old age, which can lead to knee pain, and in severe cases, deformity. Rheumatoid arthritis, however, refers to the destruction of joint cartilage caused by rheumatism, which includes the proliferation of synovium, swelling, migratory pain, morning stiffness, among other symptoms. Diagnosis can be confirmed through laboratory tests, such as the rheumatoid factor test, making it quite easy to distinguish between the two.

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
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Symptoms of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a disease caused by degenerative changes in the joints, with symptoms primarily manifesting as swelling, pain, fluid accumulation, and limited mobility in the joints. Severe cases may even lead to joint deformities and movement disorders. In terms of treatment for arthritis, it can be divided into non-surgical and surgical treatments. Non-surgical treatment involves rest and avoiding strenuous activities to prevent further joint damage. It may also include the use of anti-inflammatory painkillers, chondroprotective drugs, or intra-articular injections of sodium hyaluronate to relieve symptoms. Additionally, treatments such as hot compresses and physical therapy can be used. When conservative treatment is ineffective or accompanied by limb deformities and movement disorders, joint replacement surgery may also be an option.

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
1min 3sec home-news-image

How to reduce swelling from osteoarthritis

Patients with bone and joint issues experience joint swelling, which may be attributed to osteoarthritis accompanied by damage to the synovium, leading to synovitis and hence the swelling. Treatment for this condition should begin with rest. Individuals who are overweight should consider losing weight. Treatments can include hot packs, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications, drugs that nourish cartilage, and medications that improve blood circulation and remove blood stasis to aid recovery. Minor swelling or fluid accumulation can gradually be absorbed through these measures. In cases of significant fluid accumulation, surgery may be necessary. For the treatment of osteoarthritis, it is advised to visit an orthopedic clinic for comprehensive examinations like X-rays, CT scans, etc., and undergo standardized treatment. (Please use specific medications only under the guidance of a doctor, and do not medicate on your own.)

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
53sec home-news-image

Osteoarthritis contraindications

Patients with osteoarthritis should reduce joint load and excessive movements, and obese patients should pay attention to weight loss to avoid aggravating cartilage damage. When symptoms are severe, a cane can be used to alleviate the burden on the joints. In terms of diet, one can eat more foods rich in vitamins, mainly various vegetables and fruits, and also consume foods high in calcium appropriately. Patients with arthritis should also pay attention to protecting the joint areas, and guard against cold and dampness to avoid exacerbating symptoms. When symptoms are severe, medication can also be used for treatment, such as anti-inflammatory analgesics and drugs that nourish cartilage, which can play a role in improving symptoms and delaying the progression of the disease. When mobility is impaired, surgical treatment might be necessary.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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What foods should be eaten for osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is generally divided into two main categories. The first category is liver and kidney deficiency, commonly seen in older adults. For this condition, it is advocated to consume foods that nourish the liver and kidney. Black foods are considered to benefit the kidneys, such as black rice, black beans, black goat, and black pork. Other foods like He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum), Rehmannia glutinosa, Coix seed, and Chinese yam also help nourish the liver and kidney and can be beneficial for the condition. The second category is Qi stagnation and blood stasis type, where it is recommended to eat foods that promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis. In Western medicine, there are no specific dietary recommendations for treating osteoarthritis, except for general advice for elderly women to consume calcium-rich foods to prevent bone-related issues. Foods recommended include milk, eggs, and lean meat, which are rich in protein and calcium, and it is encouraged to consume more of these.