Knee pain can affect any individual and have a multitude of causes. The knee is a joint that consists of bones, ligaments, cartilage, tendons, and muscles that work as one. Problems with one or more parts of the knee can cause knee pain and have mild to severe symptoms. Knee pain is a common reason for doctor visits and one in three Americans older than 45 report developing knee problems, according to MayoClinic.com. Risk factors for knee pain include aging, injury, overuse, excessive weight and lack of exercise.
Exercise
Exercise can help to relieve knee pain by increasing lubrication in the joints and strengthening the muscles that support the knee. Low-impact aerobics, strengthening exercises and stretching are among the most common exercises to help relieve knee pain, according to the Arthritis Foundation. These exercises can help to control weight, increase range of motion, keep joints flexible and improve an individual’s outlook on knee pain. Reducing joint pain and improving flexibility can provide relief for many knee problems.
Weight loss is another knee pain option that can be combined with exercise. Weight loss will help to reduce strain on the knees and pressure to the knee joints. Proper nutrition and exercise can help to maintain a healthy body weight and to lose weight.
Medication
Medication is a common source of relief for individuals with knee pain. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can help to relieve symptoms associated with knee pain. Painkillers and drugs that reduce inflammation come in over-the-counter options that can help to relieve the pain associated with many knee conditions. The Chester Knee Clinic and Cartilage Repair Center explains that medications work best when combined with therapy and exercise to help with the cause of knee symptoms.
Prescription medications such as steroid injections and narcotic pain relievers also help to decrease inflammation and ease pain. Drugs can help to limit the immune system's response to pain and relieve swelling.
Surgery
Knee surgery is an option for individuals with chronic knee pain. Surgery can involve minimally invasive procedures or total knee replacement. Common knee conditions that require knee surgery are injury, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The Highland Pain Institute explains that there are wide varieties of surgical approaches to knee problems and these include synovectomy, osteotomy, and artificial and total knee replacement. Surgeons will work with patients to determine the type of surgery needed and the possible outcome. Factors such as age, weight, activity level, damage to the knee and medical history are determining factors for the type of knee surgery needed.
