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Rest the knee. Put on an ice pack wrapped in a towel for up to 20 minutes. Wear an elastic knee bandage. Prop the knee up on pillows when lying down. Try NSAID pain relievers.

Seek emergency help if the knee:

• Looks very different than usual.
• Feels intensely painful.
• Made a popping sound during an injury.
• Can't support weight or gives out.
• Quickly swells up.

See a health care provider if the knee:

• Hurts a lot.
• Has a change in skin color.
• Feels tender or warm.
• Looks swollen.
• Happens with fever.