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Dealing with osteoarthritis is a challenging and frustrating task, to say the least, and can be caused by a number of things, some of which are common sense and some of which are very difficult. Here we look at 10 Dos and Don’ts for managing osteoarthritis knee pain and finding relief.
Avoid sitting for extended periods of time. Many people are reluctant to sit for extended periods of time due to strain and pressure on their joints and this can cause problems. If you have osteoarthritis, it is important to stay as active as possible and limit your movements to minimize the amount of time you spend on your knees and your range of movement.
Avoid wearing tight or poorly fitting footwear. Poorly fitting shoes can cause pressure on your knee joints and increase the risk of injury. It is also advisable to take regular breaks from wearing shoes and avoid wearing them if you are suffering from a cold. Avoiding the use of stilettos and high-heeled shoes is another useful tip to bear in mind.
Steer clear of wearing tight and bulky clothing. Wearing clothes with large amounts of fabric will put extra stress on your muscles and joints. For most women, wearing tight clothing will also cause your breasts to swell causing pain when going up and down stairs or walking around.
Do not wear knee braces if you are trying to manage osteoarthritis knee pain. While they may help alleviate some of the symptoms because they are not considered to be a cure. If you do wear a brace, be sure to not allow your brace to interfere with daily activities.
Stay away from using heat or ice packs when treating a flare-up. Although ice and heat can relieve some of the pain associated with arthritis, they can be potentially dangerous and should be used carefully. For mild cases, it is best to treat the condition yourself and there are plenty of natural remedies available on the internet. If you have severe knee pain, it is best to visit a medical professional and see what can be done.
Under no circumstances should you be lifting heavy objects. Some people are too afraid to lift heavy objects and as a result, they are unable to perform everyday tasks which can make the problem worse. It is especially important to keep your weight down and do a proper stretching routine to keep your body limber. Although these can ease some of the pain, lifting heavy objects can cause damage to the cartilage in your knee joint and increase pressure on the joints. If you cannot lift objects safely, consider using a stepper or stair climber instead.
Avoid over-exercise. Exercising regularly will help improve flexibility and your range of motion. In addition, regular exercise will reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis by stimulating the immune system and improving circulation.
Avoid taking NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These are often prescribed to relieve pain from arthritis and they can be dangerous if taken in excess because they can cause liver damage and ulcers. If you must take NSAIDs, take them with food and not for prolonged periods. It is also not the smartest option to exercise on your own. If you experience stiffness, aching, or pain, it is always best to consult a physician before doing any strenuous activity. Even if you have tried several things without success, do not attempt to undertake any strenuous exercise without the advice of a medical professional.
Avoid smoking. Smoking can weaken the cartilage in the knees and can even lead to a degenerative condition called osteoporosis. It can also make joint replacement surgery more difficult, so it is good to stay away from tobacco products if you are concerned about osteoarthritis.
The final thing to stay away from should be very straightforward, alcohol. Alcohol can dehydrate your body and lead to dehydration and increased risks of arthritis and other problems. If you drink, limit your alcohol intake to small amounts to reduce the risk of joint damage and arthritis.
