How To Treat Osteoarthritis In Knee? 9 Simple Methods

Treating Osteoarthritis in Knee

Osteoarthritis in Knee is a deteriorating disease. Treatment depends upon a blend of conventional medicine and lifestyle changes. Medicines can treat discomfort, but there can be some side effects when you take these continuously for few days.

Home remedies, lifestyle variations, and natural medicines can help manage Osteoarthritis in Knee pain with none to fewer side effects. Some methods may even prevent Osteoarthritis in Knee from getting worse.

Home remedies don’t mean you need to replace your existing treatment. But they may provide more relief for Osteoarthritis in Knee. It’s important, you discuss home remedies and lifestyle changes with your doctor first before trying them.

Method 1: Using Hot and Cold Compresses

When it comes to pain, hot and cold compresses may be very helpful. They don’t cause any longstanding side effects that medications might. Heat is helpful for knee joint stiffness, and cold compresses are best for knee joint pain.

Compresses can decrease muscle pain or spasms surrounding a knee joint. Making a compress is as simple as using a warm or cold towel.

Method 2: Epsom Salt Bath

Epsom salt baths can provide complete relief, especially for knee joint pain. The magnesium in Epsom salt can help with swelling and pain. You can get Epsom salt from a nearby drugstore.

These baths are completely safe enough to take as frequently as you’d like for 30 minutes at a time. Take 2 cups of Epsom salt in a bath of warm water at a temperature of about 102°F (38°C).

Method 3: Topical Ointments and Creams

You can also try topical versions as a substitute for over-the-counter (OTC) medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen to treat Osteoarthritis in Knee.

These gels and creams might comprise aspirin or analgesics to numb the pain. You can apply them straight to the affected joints. These topical products work best in areas that are near the skin surface, such as your knees.

Another topical medication is capsaicin. It is a compound prepared using hot chili peppers. It works best when you apply it over the painful joints at least three to four times per day. Make sure you wash your hands each time after use in order to avoid accidental eye exposure.

Method 4: Support Devices for Osteoarthritis in Knee

There are different types of devices you can use which offers added support without the need for any medications. The device selection depends upon the affected joints. 

Here are some of the options:

• Braces
• Canes
• Grabbing or gripping tools

Method 5: Natural remedies for Osteoarthritis in Knee

Natural remedies are gaining popularity for conditions like Osteoarthritis. A lot of people believe that they would be safe as there are fewer side effects when compared with traditional medications.

Here are some of the natural remedies you can try at home.

Green Tea

Green tea is an ant-inflammatory beverage. It contains polyphenols which might help in reducing inflammation and the need for further medications.

One study in Arthritis Research and Therapy testified green tea increased cartilage protection.

It is best to consume green tea in moderation because of the risk of liver problems and side effects from concentrated amounts of polyphenols.

Ginger

Ginger has the tendency to reduce pain and relief from Osteoarthritis in Knee. 

According to a 2015 study conducted in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, ginger may even decrease the risk for Osteoarthritis related disability. Due to the risk of side effects, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health acclaims using ginger moderately as a spice instead of supplement forms.

The major risk of ginger overdose is the extraction of symptoms. Ginger can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and heartburn. It may also interfere with prescription medications, like Warfarin, because it’s an anticoagulant or blood-thinning property.

Turmeric

Curcumin is an active compound in turmeric. It’s is part of the ginger family, but may help Osteoarthritis in Knees in different ways. Studies has shown that the substance might fight inflammatory compounds. It may also help reduce pain and stiffness during an Osteoarthritis flare-up.

Here is the recommended dosage guided by the Arthritis Foundation:

• Capsules: 400 to 600 milligrams up to three times per day
• Powdered root extract: 0.5 to 1 gram, three times per day

You can add black pepper to add on the turmeric benefits. While turmeric is usually safe it can cause nausea and may intermingle with blood thinners.

Method 6: Lifestyle Changes for Osteoarthritis in Knee

Exercising can be difficult with painful knee joints. But being active can decrease pain in the long run, and even toughen muscles to prevent the further knee joint damage. As per Arthritis Foundation exercise is “the most effective non-drug treatment for reducing pain and improving movement for Osteoarthritis in Knee.”

Here are some of the exercise options for Osteoarthritis in Knee:

• Bike riding
• Swimming
• Tai chi
• Walking
• Yoga

Discuss with your doctor before indulging in any new exercises, especially if you haven’t been active before. The Arthritis Foundation mentions 150 minutes of aerobic exercise every week at a moderate intensity.

Method 7: What Foods Should Be Taken If You Have Osteoarthritis in Knee

Studies have shown that a variety of nutrients might help ease Osteoarthritis in Knee symptoms. Foods rich in vitamin C, particularly fruits and vegetables, may help. 

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, fish oil, and walnuts may also help release pain. 

Experts suggest focusing on healthy foods rather than on sole nutrients. You can easily get all the nutrients you need simply by following a balanced diet.

Here are some foods you can start giving more preference to in your plate:

• Broccoli
• Citrus fruits
• Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (tuna, salmon, mackerel)
• Garlic
• Green tea
• Low-fat dairy products
• Nuts
• Plant-based oils made from avocado, olives, safflower, and walnut

Method 8: What Foods Should Be Avoided If You Have Osteoarthritis in Knee?

Try to avoid foods such as:

• Alcohol
• Aspartame (artificial sweetener)
• Salt
• Saturated and trans fat
• Sugar
• White bread
• Rice

Method 9: Sleep Well

A quality sleep will help you manage the pain and stress of Osteoarthritis in Knee. In order to enjoy a quality sleep, try going to bed at the exact same time every night.

Take interruptions like television, computers, tablets out of your bedroom. If you're feeling uncomfortable in bed because of Osteoarthritis, try using pile of pillows to take the pressure off painful joints.