What do you when your knee hurts?

Immediate Care:

1. Rest: Avoid activities that put stress on your knee, such as running or walking.

2. Ice: Apply ice wrapped in a thin towel to your knee for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling and pain.

3. Elevation: Prop your knee up on a pillow when sitting or lying down to reduce swelling.

4. Compression: Use an elastic bandage or wrap to provide compression to your knee.

5. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Take medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to help manage pain and inflammation.

Long-Term Care and Prevention:

1. Consult a Doctor: If your knee pain persists, see a doctor to determine the root cause of the pain and receive appropriate treatment, which may include physical therapy, medication, or surgery.

2. Physical Therapy: Exercises recommended by a physical therapist can help strengthen the muscles around your knee and improve joint function, reducing pain and preventing future injuries.

3. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the stress on your knee joints.

4. Proper Footwear: Wear comfortable, well-cushioned shoes that provide adequate support for your feet and knees.

5. Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Before and after physical activities, do warm-up and cool-down exercises to prepare your body and prevent injuries.

6. Avoid Overuse: Pay attention to your body and take breaks during physical activities to prevent overuse of your knee.

Additional Tips:

1. Don't Ignore Persistent Pain: If your knee pain persists for more than a few days or if it affects your daily activities, seek medical attention.

2. Modify Activities: While recovering from knee pain, modify your daily activities to avoid aggravating the pain.

3. Gradual Exercise Return: After recovering, gradually return to your regular physical activities to avoid re-injuring your knee.