- 1). Cut down the activity that makes the swelling worse. For example, if your knee swells when cleaning the house, let the dust build up for a few weeks and allow your knee to rest; a dirty house is better than a damaged knee.
- 2). Apply ice to the knee for 20 minutes every two hours. Ice packs can be purchased from your local drug store and come with a protective wrapper. For an easy homemade ice pack, use a large bag of frozen peas or cranberries--just make sure not to eat them afterward.
- 3). Elevate your knee above your heart whenever possible. If you use a computer, switch to a laptop. If you like to watch TV, sit with your leg on top of the couch.
- 4). Wrap your knee lightly with an elastic bandage. Another alternative is to purchase a surgical stocking from a pharmacy. A non-prescription strength surgical stocking will apply even pressure to your entire leg, and reduces the danger of wrapping your knee too tightly.