Knee pain is an extremely common symptom that can result from everything from a temporary injury to a chronic condition like arthritis. You can usually treat knee pain at home with rest and over-the-counter medicine. Visit a healthcare provider if you’ve experienced an injury or have knee pain for more than a few days in a row.
Injuries from falls and direct blows to the knee may also cause joint pain. The most common types of knee-related injuries include fractures, as well as sprains, dislocations, and ligament tears. Fibromyalgia is known for causing widespread pain and extreme fatigue. Aside from pain in your joints, you may also experience flu-like symptoms and brain fog.
Introduction
Knee pain is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors such as injury, arthritis, or overuse. Finding the best way to treat knee pain can help improve mobility and quality of life for those suffering from this condition.
Low-impact cardio exercises include things like walking, biking, and elliptical training. A doctor may administer a hydrocortisone injection directly into the knee joint. A person may require stronger medication for more severe pain, which a doctor can prescribe. These may include higher dosage NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors, also called coxibs.
Physical Therapy
Second, they can be used over the long term, but only occasionally, maybe a couple of times a week as needed. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties, and there is some evidence for its usefulness for painful knee arthritis. You can add turmeric to your food or take it as a supplement. It can thin blood, so people who take a blood thinning medication should not use turmeric.
Physical therapy is often recommended as one of the best ways to treat knee pain. A physical therapist can help design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility. They can also provide techniques to reduce pain and swelling, ultimately helping to improve overall function of the knee.
But keep in mind that rushing through exercises can be counterproductive. “The knee is often an innocent bystander between the hip and the foot. Knee pain is often caused by problems occurring above or below,” says Dr. Elson. Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice. It is possible to be allergic to glucosamine, especially for people who are allergic to shell fish.
Medication
Talk to your healthcare provider or a physical therapist if you find yourself experiencing pain while exercising your muscles and joints. Although there is no cure for knee arthritis, there are treatments available to help you to keep moving. In addition to the treatments your healthcare provider offers, there are safe and effective ways you can treat knee arthritis at home. This medication can treat knee pain from various causes, including injury, arthritis, and bursitis.
For immediate relief of knee pain, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort. Acetaminophen may also be recommended for pain relief. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication regimen.
RICE Method
The RICE method – which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation – is another effective way to treat knee pain, especially in cases of injury. Resting the knee, applying ice to reduce swelling, using compression bandages, and elevating the leg can help reduce pain and promote healing.
Surgery
In severe cases of knee pain, surgery may be necessary to address underlying issues such as torn ligaments or cartilage damage. Procedures such as arthroscopy or knee replacement surgery can help alleviate chronic knee pain and restore function to the joint.
Conclusion
When it comes to treating knee pain, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best way to treat knee pain will depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for individual needs, ultimately leading to improved comfort and mobility.
