Knee Pain

One of the most common complaints that I see from my clients is knee pain.  The problems these sufferers have range from athletic injuries to chronic problems due to cartilage. 

Knee injuries just take forever to heal, mostly because we use the knee all the time.  My elderly father fell one time and hurt his knee.  He was griping about it one day about how he needed to go to the doctor. 

"Dad," I said.  "You knee is used all the time.  You'll need to let it heal."

"Well, how long is that going to take?" he shot back.

"Maybe up to six months."

"Six months!"

"Maybe.  I tell you what, if it isn't better in three, we'll go see the doctor."  I never heard about it again.

Fortunately, new technologies can give regular doctors the ability to see if the problem is bone on bone.  But if you can't afford fancy procedures, here are some simple things to try first to get rid of knee pain.

1.)  Certain rubs can help you determine the problem.  Use peppermint oil on the afflicted area to see if the problem is muscular in nature.  (Do not use if you are allergic to peppermint)  A strong arnica rub can determine if the problem is an injury or strain. Biofreeze is a product that seems to help areas that have arthritis. 

2.) A back that is out of alignment will also throw out the knees.  If you seek regular chiropractic treatment, ask that your doctor pay close attention to the knees.  A good reflexologist may be able to help with both the back and the knee issues, but the therapy may take longer than chiropractic work.  Even a massage therapist can sometimes help the backs and hips move in such a manner that may help the knees.

3)  If you haven't already tried glucosomine, it might be worth a try.  Use a liquid or gel tab to get this nutri-suppliment right to the problem quickly.  Glucosomine has been used for many years to help with joint repair.  It might take time to get relief, but many people do find it helpful.  You can spend the money on the expensive "joint repair" remedies at your local store, or just use a liquid suppliment.  But since it is not regulated by the FDA, each batch can vary in intensity, even if it is made by the same manufacturer!

4.) New shoes or better shoe supports can give the knees some relief.  Check your shoes for wear on each side to see if they need replacing.  You would be surprised how the proper foot support can help the knee.

Knee surgeries, while inconvenient, seem to really help knees do better.  We are fortunate to live in a time when this procedure has been perfected.  However, check with other people who have had it done when determining which doctor to use as a surgeon.  And always take the therapy offered to help the knee heal faster.

I find that people with chronic conditions suffer less pain if they exercise daily, mixing up tiheir workout.  Those who walk, ride bike and do water exercises have the strongest muscles and even if their knee pressure points indicate a problem, they still don't report much pain.  It's just something to keep in mind.