Knee pain is a prevalent ailment that may be induced by chronic and acute issues. Many times, knee Joint issues resolve with some rest and exercise, but other times the problems could be due to an underlying condition that requires treatment. 

One of the most general aches and pains is discomfort in the front of the knee. After back pain in terms of prevalence, around one-quarter of the population experiences it at some point throughout their life. It is most frequent in teens, particularly young female athletes. The elderly population also complain of knee joint pain quite often. If left untreated, undiagnosed knee joint problems may worsen and affect the person’s movement and quality of life to a great extent. 

What are the symptoms?

The discomfort varies, but it is typically:

• Pain in or around the knee joint
• Difficulty in walking, standing or climbing stairs
• Weakness in legs
• Swelling around the knee joint
• Clicking sound on knee joint movements
• Reduced range of motion of legs 

What can cause this pain?

The following can be the reason if your knee pain is recurring and cannot resolve on its own:

Osteoarthritis 

Osteoarthritis is a major cause of long-term knee problems. It primarily affects adults over the age of 65. It is assumed to be induced by joint wear and strain.

Movement becomes limited and discomfort gradually worsens.

The discomfort intensifies with weight bearing and subsides with rest. Pain might sometimes occur after getting up in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Movement and exercise help to decrease stiffness.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, frequently causes knee joint pain. Sore joints are typically red, painful, heated and inflamed.

The discomfort is characterised by stiffness, which is usually worse in the morning. If untreated, this may lead to damage to joints. 

Sprain and injury

Sprains and strains occur when the ligaments in the knee are stretched due to an abnormal or excessive activity or an abrupt twist or tumble. The effect on muscles and joints depends upon the intensity of force that leads to a sprain. Always better to consult a doctor for the right advice.

Gout

Gout is caused due to abnormally high levels of uric acid in the blood. It causes significant pain in joints and may affect knee joints as well. With early diagnosis and prompt treatment, symptoms can be reduced.

When to visit a Doctor?

Any pain or discomfort related to the knee joint must be evaluated by a doctor. Even mild symptoms can be indicators of an underlying disease. Early diagnosis and treatment by a (Bone and Joint) Orthopaedic doctor can save you from worsening the problem.

What are the home remedies?

It is important to understand that home remedies can temporarily help with pain management but will not eliminate the problem from its root. One must follow the treatment and exercises advised by a doctor.

The following simple remedies can help temporarily : 

Movement and activity

Exercise has the potential to delay the onset of osteoarthritis (OA), which is one of the major reasons for knee pain. Swimming and Cycling are possible exercises. Whether a person has OA or not, physical activity improves the function of cartilage tissue.

Exercise also improves how the body maintains the joints. Leg muscle strengthening is extremely excellent for the knees. Water exercise can help those with joint discomfort since it puts no load on the knees. Individuals might collaborate with physiotherapists to determine the best workouts and regimens. Activities can assist in preserving the knee joint by building the muscles of the leg. 

Checking your posture

• Avoiding low seats and sofas that you “sink” into and resting on a cushion to increase your seating position can reduce knee discomfort.
• Ensuring proper good posture, with no slouching or leaning
• Wearing comfortable shoes and avoid those with damaged heels, which can cause abnormal force and wear on the knees
• Avoiding extended sitting and lengthy periods of inactivity since joints can become stiff and uncomfortable if not moved.

Weight management

Being overweight will put more strain on the joints. Dropping it helps to minimise long-term knee discomfort, particularly arthritis pain.

Speak to your doctor and physiotherapist about the exercises that can help you. 

Healthy lifestyle changes that may help-

1. Cut off excessive salt, sugar and fried and processed food from your diet.
2. Add plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to your daily diet.
3. Omega 3 fatty acids- walnuts, flaxseeds, olive oil and almonds are beneficial for joints.
4. Sleep well and talk to your physiotherapist about the type of mattress and sleeping positions.
5. Say no to smoking and alcohol intake.
6. Stay physically active
7. Keep a tab on your health

Massage

Massaging your knees, especially self-massaging, may relieve discomfort. Speak to your doctor before opting for anything new. 

Gentle massages may benefit the muscles and joints. 

Aromatherapy

Natural oils can help with pain relief. A 2008 study found that massage with just an oil combining ginger and oranges helped with discomfort in knees with mild to severe pain.

In one study, researchers discovered that an ointment comprising cinnamon, ginger, mastic and sesame oil had the same impact on pain, stiffness and mobility as salicylate ointment.

PRICE

Protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation may aid with minor knee discomfort caused by a soft tissue injury, such as a sprain. The term “protection” refers to reducing the risk of additional harm to the knee, such as resting from the activity that caused it. Rest can help lessen the chance of further damage and allow tissues to recover. However, halting all movement is not recommended since it might cause stiffness and eventually, lead to muscle weakness. 

Ice can aid in the reduction of soreness and inflammation. On the first day after the injury, wrap it in a towel and apply it for 20 minutes. Never apply ice straight to the skin since this might cause more harm. 

Hot and cold compress

Heat and cold may both be useful based on the indication. Heat relaxes muscles and promotes blood flow, resulting in less stiffness. A heating pad or a hot water bottle can help.

Wrapping ice in a towel can help reduce discomfort, inflammation and swelling.

Some patients may use heat in the morning to promote mobility and minimise inflammation later in the day. Check any hot object before using it, particularly for an older person or someone who has difficulty communicating.

Not every remedy suits everyone; consult a doctor to understand the right treatment and remedies that may work for you. Massage may benefit some while worsening the problem in other pains. Similarly, it is important to know when to use a hot compress and when cold. 

Conclusion: Why and when to go for a Knee Replacement surgery?

The home remedies mentioned above can only temporarily relieve the problem at hand, but if the knee joint problem has worsened to the extent that it is impacting the person’s quality of life, movement and mental health, doctors may advise Knee Replacement surgery as the permanent resolution. Knee replacement surgery replaces the weight-bearing façade of a knee joint that has been damaged, deformed or infected. The objective is to relieve pain and restore mobility. The doctor either implants a joint-shaped prosthetic or conceals the margins of the bones that form the knee joint with metal or plastic components. This gives the knee freedom of movement.

Advances in medical science have made knee replacement surgery a very comfortable and smooth procedure. A person can get rid of limp and pain and get back his/her quality of life in a span of a few weeks. 

FAQ’s

Q1. When is the right time to undergo surgery?

There is no exact formula for determining when a knee replacement is necessary. The major reason for having it done is discomfort. Still, if you have exhausted all non-surgical options, such as lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy and injections, it may be time to consider surgery.

An orthopaedic surgeon will examine you thoroughly and give a suggestion. Getting a second opinion may also be advantageous.

Q2. How long does it take for surgery to get over?

It can take anywhere between 30 to 90 minutes.

Q3. Will there be pain after surgery?

There will undoubtedly be some discomfort following your surgery, but your doctors will do all necessary to keep it bearable and limited.

Q4. What are some natural cures for knee pain?

Linseed, Masha, indravalli, hadjod and other natural herbs may help with knee discomfort. There is little scientific evidence to support these home remedies for knee pain. More study is needed to demonstrate effectiveness. As a result, please seek medical advice.

Q5. Can coconut oil be used to manage knee pain naturally?

There have been no reports indicating that coconut oil can help with knee discomfort. More study is required on this issue.

Q6. Will home remedies suffice if I don’t undergo surgery?

If your problem requires surgery, home remedies may not be able to suffice. Please discuss the concerns with your doctor, as every case is different. 

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

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