Bone marrow edema is a pathological condition characterized by edema of the bone matrix, proliferation of fibrous tissue, and infiltration of inflammatory cells. Bone marrow edema is mainly revealed by magnetic resonance imaging, which shows obvious edema and hyperplasia in the bone marrow. It is mostly due to trauma or degeneration of joints, excessive stress, and application of hormones. The blood vessels in the affected area are damaged and the tissue fluid leaks out and collects in the bone marrow, triggering the symptoms of edema. Bone marrow edema is most often seen in traumatic diseases. The etiologic mechanism of bone marrow edema is not clear, but it is a self-limiting disease. Currently, the mainstay of treatment is symptomatic, including weight reduction, analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy. There are other causes of bone marrow edema, and patients are advised to seek timely medical attention to avoid delaying the disease.