The Do’s and Don’ts of Arthritis Knee Pain Relief

If you have osteoarthritis of the knee, you may wonder which activities are safe, which will cause you pain and which will bring relief. This guide from the Texas Knee Institute highlights the dos and don’ts of arthritis knee pain relief.

Exercise for Arthritis Knee Pain Relief

While some forms of exercise can help ease knee osteoarthritis pain. Unfortunately, exercise could also cause pain or even worsen your condition if you don’t take the proper precautions. Before beginning any exercise program, be aware of your current state of joint health and pain levels, so you can track any discomfort that may be associated with new movements. Also, be sure to clear new workout routine with your healthcare provider. Then, when you’re ready to get moving:

Do

• Move joints gently. Daily stretching and low-impact workouts such as progressive strength training, biking, walking or swimming are all ideal for lubricating joints and preserving mobility.  They can also help build muscles to support your movement, taking pressure off your joints.
• Focus on form. Meeting with a physical therapist can help you move in ways that protect your joint health.
• Listen to your body. Make sure to rest if you feel fatigued or experience any discomfort. 

Don’t

Engage in high impact activities, or workouts that involve lots of jumping. Steer clear of repetitive motions as well, since they can place too much pressure on your knee joints.

Lifestyle Measures

Changes in the way you live may help manage arthritis pain and prevent disease progression.

Do

• Manage your weight, since carrying extra weight puts excess pressure on your knee joints, contributing to or even worsening osteoarthritis symptoms.
  
  
• Consider massage, as it can temporarily relieve pain and stiffness. Just be sure your massage therapist is aware of your condition, and clear your treatments with your healthcare provider.

Don’t

Light up. When you smoke, you cause stress to your connective tissues. This can worsen osteoarthritis symptoms, so now’s the time to quit if you haven’t already.

Medications for Knee Pain Relief

Early-stage osteoarthritis of the knee may be manageable with medication.

Do

Look for over-the-counter options such as Tylenol, Aleve or Advil for occasional pain relief, making sure you’ve cleared your choice with a healthcare provider to be sure it’s safe for you and doesn’t interact with any other medications you may be taking. You may also look for topical joint pain relievers that contain capsaicin.

.Don’t

Avoid overuse of pain medication, since even over the counter pain relievers can cause dangerous side effects when taken in high doses for extended periods of time. If you are not able to find knee pain relief with the occasional support of medication, it may be time to start exploring a knee procedure that will provide longer lasting relief.

Lasting Relief in Houston and Dallas

When you’re ready for an arthritis treatment that goes beyond lifestyle changes or medication, Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) can offer knee pain relief without surgery. For many patients, this option can also help preserve mobility and prevent disease progression, while allowing you to delay or avoid a total knee replacement. Explore your candidacy for GAE by requesting a consultation requesting a consultation requesting a consultation at the Texas Knee Institute.