Your Health Q& A:Ouch!I cant climb,its painful!

Climbing even short stairs could be a difficult task to many preventing them from moving freely at home nor outside. Knee pain recognized to be the primary reason for such a situation, regardless of age. Bending the knee could cause great discomfort and stopping us from participating in sports or other related activities. In addition, it may result in severe physical impairment, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.

What are the most common causes of knee pain?

Trauma appears to be the primary cause however there are other reasons to blame too as listed below:

• bursitis
• tendinitis
• growth at knee joint
• degeneration  of knee cartilage that cushions the joints, known as osteoarthritis
• infection at knee joint
• rheumatoid arthritis

How can I choose to solve the pain even before consulting a doctor?

Just follow these simple steps such as RICE(rest, ice, compression and elevation) if an injury happens or in arthritis flare

Does walking alleviate the knee pain?

Yes in certain instances because it helps to rebuild the joints. Cartilage is like a sponge and it gets nutrients from the compression and decompression of one bodyweight as they walk.

What to identify if I suffering from knee arthritis?

By recognizing those symptoms such as pain, swelling, stiffness and severe limitation of daily activities.

When should I respond quickly or take knee pain seriously?

In all circumstances of worsening knee pain especially in the following events:

• unable to bear the weight
• unstable knee while walking
• marked knee swelling
• unable to flex or extend fully
• obvious knee deformity
• fever accompanies with pain and swelling

What are the consequences of sports-related knee injury?

Ligaments tear or tendon rupture commonly happens during aggressive sports activities.

What are the best exercises for knee pain?

Walking, water aerobics, cycling, swimming and yoga mostly helps in alleviating the knee pain in effective ways.

How long does trauma-related to knee injury take to heal?

Simple sprains for one to 2 weeks, extensive requiring arthroscopic surgery take one to 3 months and major traumatic injuries take up to one year to heal.

Can I consume over the counter medications for knee pain?

Yes, provided you do not have any chronic illness which requires doctor's verification. Otherwise, paracetamol, ibuprofen, naproxen, Celebrex and Arcoxia helps to overcome the pain.

Which one should I go for knee pain; heat or cold?

The heat used to relax muscles and lubricates joints. Whereas, cold aid in acute injuries to reduce swelling, inflammation and pain.

Is there any supplementation to ease knee discomfort?

Combo of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin increases lubrication and decrease inflammation.

Is that true that foods can help to make my knee stronger?

Definitely yes, as listed below:

• fish oil
• eat more avocado salad
• make habit of cooking with olive oil
• drink a lot of green tea
• eat fresh fruits like grapes, berries

What are the best ways to sleep with knee pain?

Put a  pillow under your knee or between your knee if sleep on your side.

From kitchen to remedies:

• crush carom seeds in hot tub water and soak your legs for 15-20 minutes
• apply eucalyptus oil over painful knee
• drink ginger tea or apply the ginger paste over the knee
• make a habit of drinking golden milk
• consume 1 tsp of Triphala powder in warm water alternate days.

Live as you like, die when you are done!

Disclaimer: The information given above is from a qualified medical doctor aim to educate public in general regarding the illness but it is advisable to seek medical attention in the event of a serious condition or for proper advice.