If you have been suffering from knee pain, finding the right pain reliever is essential to help alleviate your discomfort and improve your quality of life. There are many options available on the market, but not all pain relievers are created equal. It is important to choose a product that is effective in providing relief without causing any unwanted side effects.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
One of the most common types of pain relievers for knee pain are over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief from mild to moderate knee pain. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any pre-existing conditions or are taking other medications.
Some people find relief by rubbing the affected knee with creams containing a numbing agent, such as lidocaine, or capsaicin, the substance that makes chili peppers hot. Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition. “The whole concept of viscosupplementation was developed by rheumatologists to get some lubrication into the joint, but I found it doesn’t work very well,” Bargar says.
Topical Creams and Gels
However, stopping all movement is not advisable, as this can lead to stiffness and, in time, muscle weakness. Experts urge people with OA of the knee to lose weight if they have overweight or obesity. A doctor or dietitian can help decide how much weight a person needs to lose. Individuals can work with a physical therapist to identify the best exercises and programs for their needs.
Another option for pain relief is using topical creams or gels that can be applied directly to the affected area. These products often contain ingredients such as menthol or capsaicin, which provide a cooling or heating sensation that can help distract from the pain. Some topical treatments also include ingredients like lidocaine or diclofenac, which help block pain signals.
Platelets release substances called growth factors that stimulate healing after an injury. When injected into the knee, platelet-rich plasma has the potential to help damaged cartilage heal, but this has not yet been proven. It may take up to four weeks to notice any significant improvement, and the lasting effects can vary from two to six months. Hyaluronic acid injections may be repeated about once every six months. Side effects of hydrocortisone injections may include pain and swelling at the injection site and bruising.
The pain worsens on weight-bearing and is relieved with rest. It commonly affects teenagers, especially young female athletes. According to some sources, apple cider vinegar (ACV) has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve arthritis and other types of pain. Clinical trials have not proven its safety or effectiveness for use in rheumatic disease, but researchers suggest it should not be ruled out as an option in the future.
Make sure you talk to your healthcare provider before you start a yoga program to manage knee arthritis to determine what types of yoga poses might be safe for you to do. A study reported in 2019 in the journal Trials found that curcumin has similar effectiveness to diclofenac, a prescription NSAID, in managing knee OA. Curcumin does not have the same side effects and adverse effects as NSAIDs. However, in high doses, it can increase the risk of bruising, bleeding, nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal upset, and kidney stones. One 2016 systemic review and meta-analysis found that just 500 milligrams (mg) of turmeric could reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with OA or RA. In addition to reduced pain, inflammation, and reduced risk for other serious health conditions, the Arthritis Foundation reports on additional benefits to weight management.
In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best pain reliever for knee pain, it is important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prefer over-the-counter medications, topical treatments, or other alternative therapies, there are many options available to help manage your knee pain effectively. Be sure to consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about which pain reliever is right for you.
