Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium are helpful for knee pain. They can ease the pain and reduce inflammation, but you should consult with your doctor before taking these drugs. Other methods of pain relief include applying ice packs to the knee. These can be purchased from online stores or pharmacies and help reduce the swelling and inflammation in the knee. Some doctors prescribe stronger pain medications.
A doctor will assess the cause of your knee pain and recommend the best treatment option for you. Your doctor will perform a physical exam, review your medical history and may recommend diagnostic imaging tests to determine the exact location of your problem. Tests may also be recommended to rule out gout or an infection. Physical therapy may also be necessary to strengthen the muscles around your knee and stabilize it. If you wish to learn more about this, visit South Bend knee pain treatment
A meniscus tear is a tear in the meniscus, the cartilage between the thigh and shin bones. These tears sometimes heal on their own, but some tears will require surgical repair. Meniscus tears are often treated with rest, ice, and medication, but some people require surgery to correct them. A bursitis, or inflammation of a bursa, is another possible cause of knee pain. Bursae are small pockets of fluid within bones that reduce friction. Tight, twisting, pivoting, and tackling can all cause these pockets to tear.
Knee pain can affect anyone of any age. Some signs of pain include weakness, swelling, and stiffness. Pain can also be accompanied by redness and heat on the skin of the knee. You may also hear popping sounds while moving the knee. A medical professional can help you choose the best treatment for your pain.
Alternative therapies such as Tai chi are also effective for easing knee pain. Applying ice to the knee is effective for pain relief, as well as for reducing swelling. You may also want to apply a compression bandage over the knee to prevent swelling. However, make sure that it doesn’t cut off circulation. Tai chi is an ancient Chinese form of mind-body exercise that can improve flexibility and balance.
The first step in pain treatment is to identify the cause. A common cause of knee pain is osteoarthritis, which causes the protective cartilage in the knee to wear down. Walking up and down stairs or squatting can aggravate the condition. Some symptoms of osteoarthritis include nodule formation on the inside of the knee and inflammation of the plica, which surrounds the joint. Another condition is rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder that produces inflammation throughout the body. This condition can lead to a painful knee, especially in the morning.
Another treatment for knee pain is corticosteroid injections. Corticosteroid injections contain a strong anti-inflammatory called cortisone. These injections are often covered by insurance companies. Most people have good results with these injections.