Treatments for
osteoarthritis is directed at controlling the inflammatory response and
maximizing your body's ability to compensate for the damaged joint. You should
check with your doctor about which treatment is best for you. There are however
some things that you might do to help yourself if you have osteoarthritis, such
as:
1. Maintain a
healthy weight.
Toting around
excess weight places tremendous pressure on your knees. “For every pound of
weight you put on, the knees will have four more pounds of force on them and
even more than that when you go up or downstairs.
2. Keep
moving.
Regular
physical activity helps maintain joint function, including strength and range
of motion in the knees, which means less force gets applied to the knee.
3. Strengthen
the muscles that support your knees.
Developing
strong thigh muscles — especially the quadriceps, hamstrings and abductors —
improves range of motion, protects knee cartilage and reduces. An aquatic exercise
is an excellent option for patients who have difficulty exercising.
4. Perfect
your posture.
Make a point
of standing tall, with your head in line with your shoulders, your shoulders
directly over your hips, your hips aligned with your knees, and your knees
aligned with your feet. Doing “Pilates, yoga, tai chi and core-strengthening
exercises such as planks and back extensions can help improve your posture.
6. Listen to
your knee pain.
If you develop
pain and swelling in your knee, take a break from walking, running or any other
high-impact activity you're doing. Give your knee the RICE treatment — rest,
ice, compression and elevation — and take an anti-inflammatory medication such
as ibuprofen.
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