Regardless of the reason, knee joint pain occurs due to inflammation. This can happen after an injury or overuse, as well as a bout of arthritis in older patients, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other reasons you may suffer from knee joint pain include disease, rapid growth or sudden movements during some sports. If this is the first time you've suffered from knee joint pain, visit your doctor to determine the cause and necessary treatments, some of which will include home remedies, drugs or even surgery in extreme cases.
PRICE
One of the most popular types of home care is commonly called "PRICE," which stands for "Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation." Protecting a painful knee may require a compression wrap or brace, or your doctor may suggest crutches. However, "The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies" suggests you stay away from store-bought braces and pursue a custom model instead.
It's also important to give your tissues a chance to heal themselves, so resting from normal activities is vital. Ice should be placed on the knee three times a day for 20 minutes at a time, and a compression bandage can reduce the buildup of fluid in the joint that may lead to further injury. Propping your feet up can also help allow the fluid to drain from the knee, reducing the pressure and pain experienced in the joint.
Topical Ointments
Some sports ointments or those containing soothing essential oils like peppermint can reduce the pain experienced from a knee joint injury or inflammation. "The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies" warns to use these with caution, especially when wrapping the knee--this ensures you don't create excess heat or irritation that can burn the skin.
OTC Pain Reliever
If you're unable to get to a doctor immediately after experiencing knee joint pain for the first time, an over-the-counter pain reliever will not only make you more comfortable but those containing ibuprofen will reduce swelling as well.
Trigger Point Therapy
"The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies" states there is a trigger point on the inside of the thigh that may relieve knee pain if released properly. You can find this point approximately 3 inches above the kneecap and toward the inner thigh by 2 to 4 inches. Placing sustained pressure on this point for 30 to 90 seconds will release the tension in the muscle.
Corticosterioid Injections
Your doctor may choose to inject your knee joint with a corticosteroid that will help reduce inflammation, increase mobility and reduce pain, according to the Mayo Clinic. These may help your symptoms for up to a few months.
Surgery
Extreme cases of injury, such as a torn ACL or damaged cartilage and bone, may require surgery, as suggested by your physician. Options include arthroscopic and knee replacement surgery. Surgery is also often followed by several months and sometimes years of physical therapy.
