Knee Osteoarthritis: How to Make Sure The ‘Ouch’ Doesn’t Win

1. Manage your weight. Obesity is a major risk factor for knee osteoarthritis. Losing weight can help to reduce the load on your knees and slow down the progression of the disease.

2. Exercise regularly. Exercise can help to strengthen the muscles around your knees and improve your joint flexibility. However, it is important to choose low-impact exercises that do not put too much stress on your knees. Some good options include walking, swimming, and cycling.

3. Apply heat or ice. Heat can help to relieve pain and stiffness in your knees. Ice can also be helpful, especially if you have swelling.

4. Elevate your legs. Elevating your legs can help to reduce swelling and improve circulation.

5. Compression stockings. Compression stockings can help to reduce swelling and improve circulation.

6. Over-the-counter pain relievers. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to relieve pain and inflammation.

7. Topical pain relievers. Topical pain relievers, such as creams or gels, can be applied directly to your knees to help relieve pain.

8. Physical therapy. Physical therapy can help to improve the strength and flexibility of your knees and reduce pain.

9. Assistive devices. Assistive devices, such as a cane or walker, can help to reduce the load on your knees and make it easier to walk.

10. Surgery. Surgery may be necessary if other treatments do not provide adequate relief from pain.

By following these tips, you can help to manage your knee osteoarthritis and keep the ‘ouch’ from winning.