the best i way i have found is to use refreezable cold packs but nothing is 100%. when using the cold packs i use an ace bandage between the skin and the pack and then over the packs to give compression to the cold pack. this is the most helpful way for me. i am also very active and using the ace bandages allows me to get up an walk around with them on if i need or want to. after the cold packs i sometimes will use a hot bath or heating pad for a short time and then stretch and flex the knee to protect range of motion.
how do you reduce swelling in osteo arthritis of the knee?