Arthritis Pain
Knee Injuries and Knee Pain Relief
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Among the most common types of pain we experience knee pain ranks right at the top. Knee injuries are so common due to the fact that we use our knees perhaps more than any other joint. Muscle strain and tendon stress often result from overuse of our knees. Tiny tears can occur within the knee and are often not given the necessary time to heal before they are used again. As a result, inflammation and pain can occur which can lead to problems walking and pain even when sitting. The good news is that early treatment can often avoid any permanent damage to the knee and will, in fact, help provide relief for the knee pain. Since our knees get so uch use, they are easy to injure. The knee not only bears our weight, it also allows us to bend and walk. Athletes are especially prone to knee injuries, especially in contact sports such as soccer, baseball, football and basketball. Other Causes of Knee PainArthritis is another major cause of knee pain and can come in one of two forms:
Rheumatoid arthritis causes damage to the joints and cartilage. It is an auto-immune diesease in which the immune system becomes confused and begins attacking the joints. Osteoarthritis is a condition in which low-grade inflammation results in pain in the joints, caused by abnormal wearing of the cartilage that covers and acts as a cushion inside joints and destruction or decrease of synovial fluid that lubricates those joints. A variety of anti-inflammatory drugs are available both over the counter and by prescription. Such medications may provide temporary pain relief, but they don't address the root causes of arthritis. Another knee pain relief strategy is to inject steroids directly into the knee. This approach is taken only after oral medications have failed to overcome the pain. There is a serious down-side to steroid use. The steroids themselves can cause more damage to the knee cartilage and tissue as well as damage to the liver, which must process foods and drugs that you put in your system. Surgery - The Last ResortWhen degenerative osteoarthritis reaches a point where pain medication is now longer effective surgery becomes the next attempt at relieving pain. Used as a last resort, knee replacement can help but - you should be aware that the replacement itself will eventually wear out. That's why it is recommended that surgery be put off as long as possible. What is the best prognosis? Taking good care of your knees from the start! Get Fit and Stay Fit
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