Can warm compress eliminate knee joint effusion?

Oct 25, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have knee joint effusion and now the pain is so severe that I can't walk. A friend suggested applying heat. Can heat application eliminate knee joint effusion?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Heat application cannot eliminate knee joint effusion. Thermotherapy may help alleviate symptoms such as pain, but it does not remove fluid accumulation within the joint. If the synovitis is caused by fatigue or closed trauma, and the patient does not exhibit obvious signs such as redness, swelling, fever, or severe pain in the affected skin area, heat therapy may be appropriate. However, if surgical intervention is indicated, surgery will be required. Conservative treatment includes elevating the affected limb and using medications aimed at reducing swelling and promoting blood circulation.