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KNEE DEGENERATION: WAYS TO REDUCE PAIN AT HOME (OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE)

Updated: Mar 8, 2024




Although a primary risk factor for osteoarthritis of the knee is age, it can also strike younger people. It could be inherited by certain individuals. Others may develop osteoarthritis of the knee as a consequence of an infection, trauma, or even obesity. These are the answers to your queries regarding osteoarthritis in the knee, including how it's treated and ways to reduce pain at home.


What is Osteoarthritis?


Osteoarthritis, sometimes referred to as wear-and-tear arthritis, is a disorder in which the cartilage that normally acts as a cushion between joints wears down. As a result, cartilage's ability to absorb shock is reduced and the bones of the joints rub against one another more tightly. The rubbing causes discomfort, edema, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and occasionally, the development of bone spurs.


Causes of Osteoarthritis


Age is the most frequent cause of osteoarthritis of the knee. Osteoarthritis will eventually affect almost everyone to some extent. However, a number of factors raise the chance of developing severe arthritis at a younger age.


  • Age. The capacity of cartilage to repair itself declines as a person gets older.

  • Weight. Gaining more weight puts more pressure on all of the joints, particularly the knees. Three to four pounds are added to the weight on your knees for every pound you gain in weight.

  • Gender. Osteoarthritis of the knee is more common in older women from age 55 than in men.

  • Genetics. This includes genetic variations that could increase a person's risk of developing knee osteoarthritis. Hereditary irregularities in the morphology of the bones encircling the knee joint could possibly be the cause.

  • Athletics. Athletes participating in long-distance running, soccer, or tennis are most likely to develop osteoarthritis of the knee. Therefore, athletes should take care to prevent damage. But it's significant to note that consistent moderate workout strengthens joints and can lessen the possibility of osteoarthritis. In fact, osteoarthritis can be triggered by weak knee muscles.

  • Repetitive stress injuries. Due to constant pressure on the knee joint, people with certain occupations that require kneeling, squatting, or lifting heavy weights (55 pounds or more) are more likely to develop osteoarthritis of the knee.

  • Other illnesses. Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, the second most usual type of arthritis, are also more possibly to get osteoarthritis. Individuals with certain metabolic disorder, such as excess growth hormone or iron overload, also run a higher risk of osteoarthritis.

 

Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis


The main goals of treating osteoarthritis of the knee are to alleviate the pain and make you more mobile. A combination of the following will usually be part of the treatment plan:


Weight Loss


If necessary, losing even a small amount of weight can greatly reduce osteoarthritis-related knee pain.



Exercise

Enhancing the muscles surrounding the knee improves stability and reduces discomfort. Exercises that stretch the knee joint help to keep it flexible and mobile.




Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs

This covers over-the-counter options such naproxen sodium, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen. Consult your doctor before using over-the-counter drugs for longer than ten days. Extended use of these raises the possibility of side effects. Your doctor might prescribe an anti-inflammatory pill or another medication to aid with the pain if over-the-counter remedies don't work.




Alternative therapies

Glucosamine and chondroitin or SAMe supplements, acupuncture, and topical creams containing capsaicin are a few examples of complementary therapy that might be useful.




Physical and occupational therapy

Physical or occupational therapy can be helpful if you are struggling with everyday tasks. Physical therapists provide instruction on how to increase muscle strength and joint flexibility. Occupational therapists can help you learn how to perform everyday tasks like housework with minimal discomfort.




This product provides extra support for added stability and relief caused by Osteoarthritis of the Knee. For better results, wear for a long period.





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