Understanding Joint Effusion: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Joint effusion, commonly referred to as a swollen joint, occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the tissues surrounding a joint, causing it to appear larger and puffier than usual. This condition is prevalent in various types of arthritis, infections, and injuries.

One of the primary causes of joint swelling is arthritis, with common types including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, and septic arthritis. Arthritis itself is characterized by swelling and tenderness in one or more joints, with joint pain and stiffness typically worsening with age.

Joint pain can have various origins, such as Adult Still disease, ankylosing spondylitis, avascular necrosis, bone cancer, broken bones, bursitis, complex regional pain syndrome, depression, fibromyalgia, gout, hepatitis, hypothyroidism, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, leukemia, and lupus.

The experience of joint pain often involves constant or intermittent discomfort in areas like the hands, feet, hips, knees, or spine. It can manifest as stiffness, achiness, soreness, or even a burning or grating sensation.

Swollen joints, resulting from fluid in the tissues around the joints, can be uncomfortable and impede movement. In some cases, this swelling can cause joints to increase in size or appear oddly shaped.

Injuries and conditions that lead to joint inflammation are typical causes of swollen joints. These include trauma to joints, bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and muscles, as well as ligament or meniscus tears.

Other causes of joint swelling may include aging, autoimmune diseases, broken bones, bursitis, gout, joint dislocation, and joint injury.

For more information on joint effusion, visit Cleveland Clinic, WebMD, Healthline, Mayo Clinic on Arthritis, Mayo Clinic on Joint Pain, healthdirect, Verywell Health, and Healthgrades.