That’s why it’s one of the most commonly injured joints. Knee pain can be a temporary, short-term problem, but it can also be a chronic (long-term) issue that needs diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare provider. Also known as Indian frankincense, Boswellia has been used to reduce pain and improve knee joint function. One study reported in 2011 looked at Aflapin, synergistic composition derived from the Boswellia serrata plant. They found Aflapin could significantly improve pain and physical function in a little as five days in people with knee OA. Maintaining a healthy weight can be beneficial to your knee joints.
This is especially important if it has been longer than two to three days for swelling that isn’t reacting to OTC medication. Opioid pain relievers are discouraged for long-term treatment of chronic knee pain. “The milder narcotic tramadol might be appropriate for occasional use in some people,” says Dr. Day. NSAIDs can be more effective because they both relieve pain and reduce inflammation. However, they come with potential side effects and risks.
Your knee pain might start suddenly, or it could build up from mild discomfort to more painful over time. It can be caused by injury, overuse, aging, arthritis, or a variety of other medical conditions. In treating many types of knee pain, doctors try to break what’s called the inflammatory cycle. When you’re hurt, substances in your body that cause inflammation invade your knee to help with healing. But if the injury and the inflammation it causes don’t go away, the inflammation becomes long-lasting, or chronic. This leads to more inflammation and additional injury.
It most commonly develops in the knee joints, though the ankles, hips, and wrists are also sometimes affected. Tendinitis is a type of overuse injury that results in inflammation of the tendons, which connect between your muscles and bones. The knees are commonly affected areas, as well as the hips, elbows, and shoulders. While there are more than 100 types of arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA) is the one that most often affects the knee. OA is also most likely in adults over 50 years of age and is known as a “wear-and-tear” type of arthritis, where joint damage occurs from knee cartilage breaking down. Some people find these types of remedies work, but there’s not enough evidence to prove that any herbal therapy has a significant impact on knee pain.
They are thought to provide relief from osteoarthritis pain temporarily, but were not found to be effective for longer than 26 weeks. Over time, however, the body adapts to these drugs and they become less effective in relieving your pain. Because of this, opioids are typically recommended only for short-term pain control.
Dealing with knee pain can be debilitating and affect your daily activities. While it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for severe or chronic knee pain, there are several home remedies that can help alleviate discomfort.
Rest and Ice
One of the most effective ways to reduce knee pain is by resting the affected knee and applying ice to reduce inflammation. Resting allows the knee joint to heal and reduces strain on the area, while ice helps to numb the pain and decrease swelling.
Compression and Elevation
Using a compression bandage can help stabilize the knee joint and reduce swelling. Elevating the leg also helps to promote blood flow and reduce inflammation in the knee. These simple techniques can provide relief from knee pain at home.
Strengthening Exercises
Engaging in low-impact exercises that strengthen the muscles around the knee can help improve stability and reduce pain. Exercises such as leg lifts, squats, and lunges can help build muscle strength and support the knee joint.
Healthy Diet and Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy diet and managing your weight can also play a significant role in reducing knee pain. Excess weight puts added pressure on the knees, leading to increased pain and discomfort. Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients can help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health.
Hot and Cold Therapy
Alternating between hot and cold therapy can also provide relief from knee pain. Applying a warm compress to the knee can help relax muscles and improve circulation, while cold therapy can reduce inflammation and numb the area. Using these therapies interchangeably can help alleviate knee pain at home.
Conclusion
While these home treatments can help alleviate mild knee pain, it’s important to seek medical advice if you experience persistent or severe symptoms. By incorporating these simple remedies into your daily routine, you can effectively manage knee pain and improve your overall quality of life.
