THE NEURON

Know the simple steps to get relief from severe Knee Pain-

Dr. Subhankar Mishra

        Knee pain, otherwise known as arthralgia is an extremely common symptom in human life. Joints are places in your body where two bones meet. There is a space in between the bones for better functioning. It also contains lubricants for better movements. Your knee joint connects your thigh to your lower leg.

       The knee is one of the biggest joints in your body, and it absorbs and supports a lot of your weight as you move. It’s the primary joint which bears our weight. As humans walk by putting one foot at a time, whole body weight is taken by it. It causes regular wear and tear to the knee joint. That’s why it’s one of the most commonly injured joints. Knee pain can be a temporary, short-term problem, but it can also be a chronic (long-term) issue that needs diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare provider.

       Where you feel the pain depends upon the structure. If it’s on the surface then it’s due to muscles and ligaments. Deep pains are due to bones and cartilage. Sometimes the pain travels to other parts of the leg. It’s due to the involvement of nerves around it. The pain arises due to overuse, inflammation or due to injuries. Osteoarthritis of the knee is a common cause of knee pain. It is one of the very common arthritis of the knee. There are other rare causes of arthritis of knee too.

HOW TO COUNTER KNEE PAIN

REST

        Take rest. Decrease the motion which causes pain. Don’t do activities which will increase the pain. Avoid stairs and excess folding of the knee. Knee pain when bending is very common.

ICE APPLICATION

         Ice application will help decrease inflammation. Apply ice for 10/15 minutes every 2/3 hourly and then decrease the frequency. Don’t apply directly over skin. Rather use a pouch.

COMPRESSION

        Compression to the affected part decreases inflammation by diverting the blood flow. Regular compression helps in early recovery.

ELEVATION

        Keep the limb elevated so that blood flow decreases to the inflamed part. It helps to reduce inflammation and improves function.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

         Physical therapy is a very important key to alleviate the pain symptoms of the knee. Quadricep strengthening exercises help in a better outcome. It helps in making the knee extensor strong further decreasing the stress on the knee.

BRACES

         Some knee braces support your knee and hold it in place. Knee braces work by keeping your knee in alignment. They’re usually made of stiff substances with cushions and straps that wrap around your knee and leg.

OVER THE COUNTER MEDICINE

        Several medicines like NSAID, opioids, oral steroids help in alleviation of symptoms of knee pain. It should be taken after the prescription of the physician. There are several medicines for knee pain treatment. If there is severe knee pain and conventional treatments fail then knee pain surgery might be needed.

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