Losing even a small amount of weight can make a big difference to knee pain. These can be caused by sports injuries, but you don’t have to be sporty to have this type of knee pain. While you can take pain-relieving drugs for knee osteoarthritis, they should be used cautiously and only as one part of a more comprehensive approach.
Try to maintain a healthy weight and avoid activities that put a lot of stress on your knees. Get treatment if you have symptoms of arthritis of the knee. Ask your healthcare provider if it’s OK for you to try the over-the-counter medications and supplements for arthritis of the knee. But some treatments help reduce the severity of the symptoms and maybe keep the disease from getting worse. People of all ages can get arthritis, including arthritis of the knee. If you’re age 50 or older, you have a higher risk of getting knee arthritis.
Are you experiencing debilitating knee pain that seems to have come out of nowhere? Many individuals with arthritis often wonder, “How did your arthritis knee pain start?” Understanding the origins of your knee pain is crucial in managing and treating this condition effectively.
A weight loss program should include both diet and exercise. Some people have difficulty exercising to lose weight because their knees hurt. But any type of exercise can help, even strengthening the upper body. Arthritis can be a pain in the neck (and knees, and hips, and back and any other joint in your body), but try to stay as active as possible. Ask your provider about physical or occupational therapy to help you stay strong, active and confident throughout your daily routine.
Understanding the Causes of Arthritis Knee Pain
Pain and stiffness caused by arthritis of the knee can make walking difficult. See your healthcare provider about treatments that might reduce your risk of such symptoms. However, it is possible to feel less pain, swelling and stiffness because of medications, physical therapy and other treatments. I remember early on in my career (22 years ago) when “hyper” mobility was considered a bad thing.
Your provider will help you understand which type of arthritis you have, what’s causing it and which treatments you’ll need. You may need a joint replacement if you have severe arthritis that you can’t manage with other treatments. Arthritis is the swelling and tenderness of one or more joints. The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. A healthcare provider will diagnose arthritis with a physical exam.
She also suggests trying a topical NSAID, such as diclofenac (Voltaren Gel®, Pennsaid®), which has fewer potential side effects. The evidence for glucosamine and chondroitin is mixed, but they are safe. However, people with a shellfish allergy may not be able to tolerate them. “If you notice improvement, great; if not, then stop it,” she says.
Arthritis knee pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Age: As we age, the cartilage in our joints naturally wears down, leading to arthritis.
- Injury: Previous injuries to the knee joint can increase the risk of developing arthritis later on.
- Genetics: Family history can play a role in determining your likelihood of developing arthritis.
- Obesity: Being overweight puts excess strain on your knees, increasing the risk of arthritis.
It most commonly develops in the knee joints, though the ankles, hips, and wrists are also sometimes affected. 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.
Common Symptoms of Arthritis Knee Pain
Some common symptoms of arthritis knee pain include:
- Pain and swelling in the knee joint
- Stiffness and difficulty moving the knee
- Cracking or popping sounds when bending the knee
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
