Knee Pain

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KNEE PAIN

We demand a lot from our knees. We use them to go up and down stairs, bend when we pick up packages and children, run for fitness and walk properly even if we wear attractive-but-oh-so unnatural footwear like high heels. No wonder that the small, overworked joint rebels.

Be kind to your knees

Rest makes sense

If knee pain is triggered by gardening or other activities that you love, it's tempting to continue what you're doing, despite the pain-not a good idea.

Then, ice them

Apply an ice pack for no longer than 20 minutes at a time, as frostbite can occur on your skin. Ice your knees several times a day when they hurt or swell. Make sure that the ice is in a padded pack or wrapped in a towel so that it doesn't come in direct contact with your skin.

Wrap it and raise it

You should also compress your knee with a bandage that is secure but doesn't cut off circulation, like an ace bandage or a slip-on elastic knee sleeve, available at drugstores.

Kill the pain

An over-the-counter remedy containing aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen or acetaminophen can help ease the pain.

Shed some weight

If you're overweight and can lose weight, drop those pounds. It will help relieve pressure on your kneecaps.

Wear cmfortable, low heeled shoes

High heels increase the pressure on your knees. Instead, try walking around in shoes with low heels or no heels, or wear walking or running shoes.

Change positions

Sitting for a long time can also put a lot of pressure on your kneecaps. Check the height of your chair to make sure that your feet are planted firmly on the ground. If they are not, get a lower chair or a stool for your feet.

Stretch your knees

From time to time during the day, bend forward and relax and straighten out your knees to make sure that they don't stiffen.

Break up long drives

Call it commuter's knee. Your knees can really get stiff from being held in the same position during a long drive. If you have cruise control, go for it-and stretch out your knees. If you don't, try to shift positions from time to time and try to take a break from driving once an hour.