What Is a Knee Effusion?
Knee effusion is the clinical term for excess fluid building up in or around the joint of the knee. It is also called water on the knee. An effusion is a painful condition that can limit mobility and function of the knee. There are many different causes for a knee effusion. Most often it is caused by a knee injury such as a broken bone, tear of the ligament, or any injury from overuse of the joints in the knee. Arthritis can also cause the condition, as it can cause joints to swell. Bacterial infections, tumors, cysts and gout can all also lead to inflamed knee joints and knee pain.