Arthritis Knees – Tips for Relief

The disease arthritis is a degenerative condition that results in long-term damage to joints. This damage results in symptoms such as pain, inflammation, stiffness, and loss of range of motion. While most any joint can be afflicted with arthritis, knees are one of the more common targets of the disease. If attacked by arthritis, knees on both sides are usually affected, thought it is possible for arthritis to be selective and affect one side of the body and not the other. When diagnosed with Arthritis Knees can most definitely be a source of debilitating pain and negatively impact your ability to lead an active lifestyle.

Since the knees constantly bear your weight anytime you are standing or walking, the symptoms of Arthritis Knees are often painful and unpleasant. As with other joints inflicted with arthritis, knees will frequently become stiff and swollen. This stiffness is usually worse in the morning or after a period of inactivity. Many arthritis sufferers find that sitting for long periods can result in pain or weakness in their knees when they attempt to stand, resulting in “locking” or “buckling”. If suffering from arthritis, knees are also affected by the weather, with more reported symptoms on cold or rainy days.

Since arthritis is a chronic condition which can lead to major damage in affected joints if not treated properly, an all-around Arthritis Knees management strategy is a must. If you are diagnosed with arthritis, knees can be of particular concern. One of the most common treatments is with the use of either anti-inflammatory or pain medications, or both. Anti-inflammatories are a first-line drug of choice because they help to reduce the symptoms of arthritis, knees in particular. Pain medications may also be prescribed to supplement these drugs, but should be taken with care since they can often mask symptoms that may indicate a progression of the condition.

Since Arthritis Knees are tasked with supporting your weight any time you are erect, it is also important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to keep your body weight at a healthy level. Obesity places excess stress on the knees and will accelerate the condition. Like many joints affected with arthritis, knees often can benefit from stretching or moderate exercise if your doctor feels you are healthy enough. In more extreme cases of Arthritis Knees may require a brace to help improve mobility or even replacement of the joint entirely as a last resort.