Knee Pain? Learn The Signs And How To Treat It!



Although the knee  may look like a simple joint is is one of the most complex and the knee is more likely than any other joint in the body to be injured. But we tend to ignore our knees until something happens to them that causes pain. Over 1.2 million Australians suffer from osteoarthritis, and about 80% of these suffer from knee osteoarthritis. It is the leading cause of muculoskeletal pain and disability.

Signs and symptoms that sometimes accompany knee pain include:


Ways to Relieve Knee Pain

Maintain a healthy weight 
Carrying extra weight can exert additional pressure on your joints and contribute to knee pain. If you're overweight, losing as little as 5 percent of your body weight can help relieve the stress on your knees. Talk to your doctor about developing a healthy eating plan and exercise program to help you lose weight sensibly. 

Find a low-impact exercise you enjoy 
Talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise program. Good choices for people with knee pain include walking and swimming. Be sure to warm up before and cool down after exercising. Avoid hilly terrain and high-impact activities like running and jumping, as these can worsen knee pain. 

Give a physical therapy a try 
Physical and occupational therapy often ad helpful for people with knee pain. A physical therapist can help design an exercise program that fits your individual ability level and teach you proper techniques to spare your joints. 

Get enough rest and relaxation 
Physical activity is important but adequate rest and relaxation can go further in helping promote good health - and reduce pain. For example, learning stress-relief techniques like deep breathing and meditation in order to achieve a healthy balance in your life. 

Make sure you're getting enough sleep 
Proper sleep is necessary for overall health, so if you are having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor. Proper pain management can help break the cycle to help you slumber soundly. 

Use ice and/or heat 
For many people with knee pain (or arthritis pain in general), ice can help relieve pain and swelling and heat can help ease stiffness. Ask your physiotherapist about how to safely use an ice pack and/or warm towel or heating pad. A hot shower in the morning or warm bath before be at night also may be helpful. 

Apply a topical pain reliever 
A number of over-the-counter an prescription creams, gels, sprays and patches are readily available to help relieve knee pain. Again ask your physiotherapist which products might be right for you. 



Injuries are often caused by overuse and there are ways to prevent them. If you are experiencing pain it is important that you have your condition assessed by a physiotherapist.

For details and bookings phone or SMS 0434708488 the team at Boost Physiotherapy. 



                                                                                                            (Source: Australian Physiotherapy Association, Mayo Clinic, Health Communities) 

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