Knee arthritis typically affects individuals over the age of 50 years old, and is characterized by a wearing away of the cartilage joint in the knee. When the cartilage begins to disappear, the joint and bare bone rub against each other, causing pain. The most common symptoms of knee arthritis, include limited range of motion, swelling in joint, pain with activities, tenderness in area, and a feeling of stiffness in the knee. While prescription drugs are available to relieve pain, there are alternative treatments that alleviate symptoms as well. Consult a medical professional before beginning any type of treatment.
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Acupuncture
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Acupuncture can improve function and provide pain relief when you are dealing with arthritis in your knee and can be an effective complement to traditional care. During acupuncture, needles are inserted into your knee in specific areas, which redirect your body’s energy. This reduces the pain associated with knee arthritis, and is considered a safe, long-term solution.
Ginger
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While ginger is best known for its use in cooking and baking, the properties found in ginger extract can also help relieve knee arthritis pain. The ingredients in ginger have been found to reduce inflammation, and taking a ginger extract twice daily can lessen the pain, and allow you to take fewer pain-killing medications.
Yoga
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Yoga involves a series of gentle stretches and exercises, which are combined with a deep breathing program. While you can use yoga to decrease stress in your life, this exercise program can also reduce pain resulting from knee arthritis. Yoga poses can strengthen the joints in your knee, which allows them to function normally and reduces stiffness.
Massage Therapy
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Massage therapy helps relieve muscle tension that is associated with knee arthritis, by boosting circulation in the area. Circulation promotes cartilage repair and decreases joint stiffness. Therapists do not directly massage the inflamed joint, but the muscles that surround it.
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