Knee pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages. Knee pain may be the result of an injury, such as a ruptured ligament or torn cartilage. Medical conditions — including arthritis, gout and infections — also can cause knee pain.
Many types of minor knee pain respond well to self-care measures. Physical therapy and knee braces also can help relieve knee pain. In some cases, however, your knee may require surgical repair.
1. Swelling and stiffness. 2. Redness and warmth to the touch. 3. Inability to fully straighten the knee.
Age : Age-related changes in the spine, such as herniated disks and bone spurs, are the most common causes of sciatica. Strains : not warming up properly before physical activity. Obesity: By increasing the stress on your spine, excess body weight can contribute to the spinal changes that trigger sciatica. Diabetes : This condition, which affects the way your body uses blood sugar, increases your risk of nerve damage.
It's not always possible to prevent. The following can play a key role in protecting your back: Exercise regularly : To keep your back strong, pay special attention to your core muscles — the muscles in your abdomen and lower back that are essential for proper posture and alignment. Good posture : Choose a seat with good lower back support, armrests and a swivel base. Smoking : A significantly higher percentage of smokers have back pain incidences compared to non-smokers of the same age, height, and weight. Body weight : The weight people carry and where they carry it affects the risk of developing back pain. The difference in back pain risk between obese and normal-weight individuals is considerable. People who carry their weight in the abdominal area versus the buttocks and hip area are also at greater risk.
If your pain doesn't improve with self-care measures, your doctor might suggest some of the following treatments. Medication : Back pain that does not respond well to OTC painkillers may require a prescription NSAID. Codeine or hydrocodone, which are narcotics, may be prescribed for short periods. These require close monitoring by the doctor. In some cases, muscle relaxants may be used. Therapy : Physical Therapy : Applying heat, ice, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation — as well as some muscle-release techniques to the back muscles and soft tissues — may help alleviate pain.