Knee pain is a prevalent ailment that may be induced by chronic and acute issues. Many times, knee joint issues resolve with some rest and exercise, but other times the problems could be due to an underlying condition that requires treatment.
One of the most general aches and pains is discomfort in the front of the knee. After back pain in terms of prevalence, around one-quarter of the population experiences it at some point throughout their life. It is most frequent in teens, particularly young female athletes. The elderly population also complain of knee joint pain quite often. If left untreated, undiagnosed knee joint problems may worsen and affect the person’s movement and quality of life to a great extent.
The discomfort varies, but it is typically:
The following can be the reason if your knee pain is recurring and cannot resolve on its own:
Osteoarthritis is a major cause of long-term knee problems. It primarily affects adults over the age of 65. It is assumed to be induced by joint wear and strain.
Movement becomes limited and discomfort gradually worsens.
The discomfort intensifies with weight bearing and subsides with rest. Pain might sometimes occur after getting up in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Movement and exercise help to decrease stiffness.
Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, frequently causes knee joint pain. Sore joints are typically red, painful, heated and inflamed.
The discomfort is characterised by stiffness, which is usually worse in the morning. If untreated, this may lead to damage to joints.
Sprains and strains occur when the ligaments in the knee are stretched due to an abnormal or excessive activity or an abrupt twist or tumble. The effect on muscles and joints depends upon the intensity of force that leads to a sprain. Always better to consult a doctor for the right advice.
Gout is caused due to abnormally high levels of uric acid in the blood. It causes significant pain in joints and may affect knee joints as well. With early diagnosis and prompt treatment, symptoms can be reduced.
Any pain or discomfort related to the knee joint must be evaluated by a doctor. Even mild symptoms can be indicators of an underlying disease. Early diagnosis and treatment by a (Bone and Joint) Orthopaedic doctor can save you from worsening the problem.
It is important to understand that home remedies can temporarily help with pain management but will not eliminate the problem from its root. One must follow the treatment and exercises advised by a doctor.
The following simple remedies can help temporarily :
Exercise has the potential to delay the onset of osteoarthritis (OA), which is one of the major reasons for knee pain. Swimming and Cycling are possible exercises. Whether a person has OA or not, physical activity improves the function of cartilage tissue.
Exercise also improves how the body maintains the joints. Leg muscle strengthening is extremely excellent for the knees. Water exercise can help those with joint discomfort since it puts no load on the knees. Individuals might collaborate with physiotherapists to determine the best workouts and regimens. Activities can assist in preserving the knee joint by building the muscles of the leg.
Being overweight will put more strain on the joints. Dropping it helps to minimise long-term knee discomfort, particularly arthritis pain.
Speak to your doctor and physiotherapist about the exercises that can help you.
Healthy lifestyle changes that may help-
Massaging your knees, especially self-massaging, may relieve discomfort. Speak to your doctor before opting for anything new.
Gentle massages may benefit the muscles and joints.
Natural oils can help with pain relief. A 2008 study found that massage with just an oil combining ginger and oranges helped with discomfort in knees with mild to severe pain.
In one study, researchers discovered that an ointment comprising cinnamon, ginger, mastic and sesame oil had the same impact on pain, stiffness and mobility as salicylate ointment.
Protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation may aid with minor knee discomfort caused by a soft tissue injury, such as a sprain. The term “protection” refers to reducing the risk of additional harm to the knee, such as resting from the activity that caused it. Rest can help lessen the chance of further damage and allow tissues to recover. However, halting all movement is not recommended since it might cause stiffness and eventually, lead to muscle weakness.
Ice can aid in the reduction of soreness and inflammation. On the first day after the injury, wrap it in a towel and apply it for 20 minutes. Never apply ice straight to the skin since this might cause more harm.
Heat and cold may both be useful based on the indication. Heat relaxes muscles and promotes blood flow, resulting in less stiffness. A heating pad or a hot water bottle can help.
Wrapping ice in a towel can help reduce discomfort, inflammation and swelling.
Some patients may use heat in the morning to promote mobility and minimise inflammation later in the day. Check any hot object before using it, particularly for an older person or someone who has difficulty communicating.
Not every remedy suits everyone; consult a doctor to understand the right treatment and remedies that may work for you. Massage may benefit some while worsening the problem in other pains. Similarly, it is important to know when to use a hot compress and when cold.
The home remedies mentioned above can only temporarily relieve the problem at hand, but if the knee joint problem has worsened to the extent that it is impacting the person’s quality of life, movement and mental health, doctors may advise Knee Replacement surgery as the permanent resolution. Knee replacement surgery replaces the weight-bearing façade of a knee joint that has been damaged, deformed or infected. The objective is to relieve pain and restore mobility. The doctor either implants a joint-shaped prosthetic or conceals the margins of the bones that form the knee joint with metal or plastic components. This gives the knee freedom of movement.
Advances in medical science have made knee replacement surgery a very comfortable and smooth procedure. A person can get rid of limp and pain and get back his/her quality of life in a span of a few weeks.
Q1. When is the right time to undergo surgery?
There is no exact formula for determining when a knee replacement is necessary. The major reason for having it done is discomfort. Still, if you have exhausted all non-surgical options, such as lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy and injections, it may be time to consider surgery.
An orthopaedic surgeon will examine you thoroughly and give a suggestion. Getting a second opinion may also be advantageous.
Q2. How long does it take for surgery to get over?
It can take anywhere between 30 to 90 minutes.
Q3. Will there be pain after surgery?
There will undoubtedly be some discomfort following your surgery, but your doctors will do all necessary to keep it bearable and limited.
Q4. What are some natural cures for knee pain?
Linseed, Masha, indravalli, hadjod and other natural herbs may help with knee discomfort. There is little scientific evidence to support these home remedies for knee pain. More study is needed to demonstrate effectiveness. As a result, please seek medical advice.
Q5. Can coconut oil be used to manage knee pain naturally?
There have been no reports indicating that coconut oil can help with knee discomfort. More study is required on this issue.
Q6. Will home remedies suffice if I don’t undergo surgery?
If your problem requires surgery, home remedies may not be able to suffice. Please discuss the concerns with your doctor, as every case is different.
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
Knee pain has become a part of life for many people because it never goes. This pain can start at any age. However, usually, it is more as you age. Whether it is due to an injury or some underlying medical condition, knee pain can interfere with your daily activities. The debilitating pain may last for some hours or at times for days altogether.
The prominent cause of knee pain currently everyone is facing is – obesity. Obesity causes knee pain at any age as it causes extra pressure on your knee joints. For some, it can turn into a lifelong issue. Many types of minor knee pain respond well to self-care measures. Physical therapy and knee braces also can help relieve knee pain. In some cases, however, your knee may require surgical repair.
Knee pain can have different causes. Being overweight puts you at greater risk for knee problems. Overusing your knee can trigger knee problems that cause pain.
The location and severity of knee pain may vary, depending on the cause of the problem. Signs and symptoms that sometimes accompany knee pain include:
When someone is going through knee joint pain, the first thing one does is dependent on pain killers. But before you step out to visit a pharmacist and pop some pills, try considering the natural remedies.
Both heat and cold compression work as an anti-inflammatory. But the treatment you choose depends on the type of pain you have. Heat relaxes muscles and improves lubrication, leading to a reduction in stiffness. For better results, you can use a hot water bottle or a warm pad. Ice can also be a good option at the end of a long day if your knee becomes inflamed. You can wrap an ice cube in a cloth and apply it to the affected part.
Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce inflammations. This herb is rich in a compound called gingerol, which is anti-inflammatory. Topical application of ginger oil, as well as drinking ginger tea, can help. You can also brew ginger in hot water, with honey & lemon. Drink 2- 3 cups a day until the pain eases.
Turmeric is a magical spice with excellent health benefits. It has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidants properties. It contains Curcumin that is an anti-inflammatory chemical found in turmeric with a lot of antioxidant properties. Its root slows the progression of rheumatoid arthritis, which is one of the causes of knee pain.
For instant relief, boil a half teaspoon each of ground ginger and turmeric to a cup of water for 10 minutes. Strain, add honey to taste and drink this ‘tea’ twice a day.
Tulsi or holy basil is known for its magical effects on rheumatic arthritis. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. Tulsi also works in relieving joint pain and pain associated with arthritis. You can drink Tulsi tea 3-4 times per day for knee pain relief.
Massage with essential oils can give you instant relief from joint pains. As per some studies, ginger and orange essential oils work well in getting rid of knee pain. It releases stiffness and reduces pain in the affected part.
This red and strong spice contains a specific compound called –capsaicin, which acts as a natural painkiller. It temporarily uses up substance P-a brain chemical that stimulates pain receptors which redirects nerves, so you don’t feel pain in the joint. You can apply its paste to the affected area for instant relief.
Epsom salt acts as an anti-inflammatory to reduce joint pain and swelling. It contains magnesium and sulfate which are both powerful pain-relieving agents. You can put a spoon of Epsom salt in your bath water and soak yourself in it for 30 minutes.
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And above all,
A sore knee can be quite painful and stress may only increase the strain on this joint. While it is important to stay fit and healthy, it is also integral that you ensure adequate rest is taken as you recuperate from any issues pertaining to your knee. A minor sprain or sore knee would require around a day or two of rest to gain some relief. More severe cases would require a substantial period of rest and rehabilitation for any knee-related injuries. If you still find yourself having knee problems even after this, you should consult a doctor so you may be correctly diagnosed. Any problem that is identified sooner can also be treated with ease and prevent any long-term damage to your knee.
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