8 Ways to Relieve Knee Pain

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight.

Carrying extra pounds can exert additional pressure on your joints and contribute to knee pain. If you're overweight, losing as little as 5 percent of your body weight can help relieve the stress on your knees. Talk to your doctor about developing a healthy eating plan and exercise program to help you lose weight sensibly.

2. Find a Low-Impact Exercise You Enjoy.

Talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise program. Good choices for people with knee pain include walking and swimming. Be sure to warm up before and cool down after exercising. Avoid hilly terrain and high-impact activities like running and jumping, as these can worsen knee pain.

3. Give Physical Therapy a Try.

Physical and occupational therapy often are helpful for people with knee pain. A physical therapist can help design an exercise program that fits your individual ability level and teach you proper techniques to spare your joints. Occupational therapy can teach you how to reduce strain on your knees in your daily activities.

4. Get Enough Rest and Relaxation.

Sure, physical activity is important, but R and R can go a long way to promote good health - and reduce pain. Achieve a healthy balance in your life by learning stress-relief techniques like deep breathing and meditation.

5. Make Sure Your Getting Enough Sleep.

No question - arthritis pain can interfere with a good night's sleep. However, proper sleep is necessary for overall health, so if you are having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor. Proper pain management can help break the cycle to help you slumber soundly.

6. Use Ice and/or Heat.

For many people with arthritis pain, ice can help relieve pain and swelling and heat can help ease stiffness. Ask your doctor about how to safely use an ice pack and/or a warm towel or heating pad. A hot shower in the morning or warm bath before bed at night also may be helpful.

7. Use an Oral Pain Reliever.

Oral pain medications are commonly used to treat osteoarthritis symptoms. The first choice is usually an over-the-counter drug like acetaminophen. Ask your doctor about your options - several medications are available, including prescription drug options.

8. Apply a Topical Pain Reliever.

A number of over-the-counter and prescription creams, gels, sprays and patches are available to help relieve arthritis pain. These pain relievers contain ingredients like capsaicin, salicylates, menthol, or a combination of medicines. Ask your doctor if one of these products might be right for you.