What are the most effective medications for knee pain. How do over-the-counter and prescription options compare. What are the potential side effects and precautions for common knee pain treatments. When should you seek medical advice for knee pain.

Understanding the Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain can stem from various sources, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. Understanding the root cause is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment approach.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

• Overuse or repetitive stress
• Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
• Baker’s cyst
• Joint infection
• Bursitis
• Torn cartilage
• Strains or sprains

Identifying the underlying cause of knee pain is essential for developing an effective treatment plan. While some cases may resolve with rest and home remedies, others may require medical intervention.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief Options for Knee Pain

For mild to moderate knee pain, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can provide significant relief. These readily available options are often the first line of defense against knee discomfort.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are a popular choice for managing knee pain due to their dual action of reducing inflammation and alleviating pain. Common OTC NSAIDs include:

• Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
• Naproxen sodium (Aleve)

Are NSAIDs safe for everyone. While generally well-tolerated, NSAIDs can pose risks for certain individuals. People with a history of heart disease, stroke, or gastrointestinal issues should consult a healthcare provider before using NSAIDs regularly.

Acetaminophen: An Alternative Pain Reliever

Acetaminophen, sold under brand names like Tylenol and Panadol, is another effective option for knee pain relief. Unlike NSAIDs, acetaminophen does not reduce inflammation but can effectively manage pain and fever.

How does acetaminophen compare to NSAIDs for knee pain. While both can be effective, acetaminophen may be preferable for those who cannot take NSAIDs due to health concerns. However, it’s important to note that acetaminophen does not address inflammation, which can be a significant factor in many knee pain cases.

Prescription Medications for Severe Knee Pain

When OTC options prove insufficient, healthcare providers may prescribe stronger medications to manage more severe or persistent knee pain.

High-Dose NSAIDs

Prescription-strength NSAIDs offer more potent pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects. These may include:

• High-dose ibuprofen
• High-dose naproxen
• Diclofenac (Voltaren)

COX-2 Inhibitors (Coxibs)

COX-2 inhibitors are a specialized class of NSAIDs that may offer pain relief with a potentially lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Examples include:

• Celecoxib (Celebrex)
• Etoricoxib

How do COX-2 inhibitors differ from traditional NSAIDs. COX-2 inhibitors selectively target the COX-2 enzyme, which is primarily responsible for inflammation and pain. This selective action may reduce the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding associated with traditional NSAIDs.

Topical Treatments for Localized Knee Pain

For those seeking targeted relief or looking to minimize systemic side effects, topical treatments can be an excellent option for managing knee pain.

NSAID Gels and Creams

Many NSAIDs are available in topical formulations, allowing for direct application to the affected knee. These may include:

• Diclofenac gel
• Ibuprofen cream

Are topical NSAIDs as effective as oral medications. While they may not provide the same level of systemic relief, topical NSAIDs can be highly effective for localized knee pain and may have a lower risk of systemic side effects.

Capsaicin-Based Creams

Derived from chili peppers, capsaicin can provide pain relief by desensitizing nerve endings. These creams may be particularly useful for chronic knee pain conditions.

Injection Therapies for Knee Pain Management

In cases where oral or topical medications prove insufficient, injection therapies may offer more targeted and long-lasting relief.

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections can provide powerful anti-inflammatory effects directly to the knee joint. These injections may offer relief for several weeks to months.

Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Also known as viscosupplementation, hyaluronic acid injections aim to improve joint lubrication and reduce pain, particularly in cases of osteoarthritis.

How long do the effects of knee injections typically last. The duration of relief can vary significantly between individuals and injection types. Corticosteroid injections may provide relief for several weeks to months, while hyaluronic acid injections can potentially offer benefits for up to six months or longer in some cases.

Natural and Alternative Remedies for Knee Pain

Many individuals seek natural alternatives or complementary therapies to manage knee pain, either alongside or in place of conventional medications.

Supplements and Nutraceuticals

• Glucosamine and chondroitin
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Turmeric (curcumin)

Do natural supplements have scientific backing for knee pain relief. While some studies suggest potential benefits, the evidence for many natural supplements remains mixed. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Physical Therapies

• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

These non-pharmacological approaches may offer pain relief and improved function for some individuals with knee pain.

Lifestyle Modifications and Prevention Strategies

While medications can provide relief, addressing underlying factors and making lifestyle changes can significantly impact long-term knee health.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the knee joints. Even modest weight loss can significantly improve knee pain and function in overweight individuals.

Exercise and Physical Therapy

Regular, low-impact exercise and targeted physical therapy can strengthen the muscles supporting the knee, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.

What types of exercises are best for knee pain. Low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, and elliptical training can provide cardiovascular benefits without excessive stress on the knees. Strength training exercises focusing on the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles can also improve knee stability and function.

Proper Footwear and Orthotics

Wearing supportive shoes and using custom orthotics can help align the lower body and reduce stress on the knees during daily activities.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Knee Pain

While many cases of knee pain can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical evaluation.

Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention

• Severe pain or swelling
• Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
• Visible deformity of the knee
• Signs of infection (fever, redness, warmth)

How can you differentiate between normal knee pain and a more serious condition. Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest, pain that worsens over time, or pain accompanied by swelling, redness, or warmth may indicate a more serious underlying condition requiring medical evaluation.

Chronic Pain Management

For individuals with persistent knee pain lasting more than a few weeks, consulting with a healthcare provider can help develop a comprehensive treatment plan. This may involve a combination of medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications tailored to the individual’s specific needs.

In conclusion, managing knee pain often requires a multifaceted approach. While medications can provide significant relief, they are most effective when combined with appropriate lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and prevention strategies. By understanding the various treatment options available and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can develop an effective plan to manage knee pain and improve their overall quality of life.

Best medication for knee pain: Types and side effects

Several medication options are available to treat knee pain, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription options, and injections.

Knee pain can start slowly and gradually worsen over time. The medication a person takes to treat knee pain will depend on the cause and severity of the pain.

There are many potential causes of knee pain, including:

• overuse
• arthritis
• Baker’s cyst
• infection in the joint
• bursitis
• torn cartilage
• strain or sprain

This article looks at the best medication for knee pain, home remedies, prevention of knee pain, and when to contact a doctor.

People may treat mild to moderate knee pain with over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen.

NSAIDs relieve inflammation and help with pain management. Some types of NSAIDs are available OTC to treat mild to moderate pain.

OTC NSAIDs includeibuprofen, available under brand names such as Motrin and Advil, and naproxen sodium, available under the brand name Aleve.

Dosage

An adult can take ibuprofen at 800–1,200 milligrams (mg) per day. For naproxen sodium, the daily dose should not be more than 1,375 mg.

A person should follow the instructions on the medication guide and never exceed the recommended daily dose.

Precautions

NSAIDs may increase the risk of stroke or heart attack, which may occur suddenly. These risks may be even higher in people who:

• smoke
• have previously had a heart attack or stroke
• have diabetes or high cholesterol

Doctors also associate NSAIDs with a risk of ulcers and holes and bleeding in the intestine and stomach. These risks may be higher for people who drink alcohol frequently, are older adults, or have other health conditions.

The risks associated with NSAIDs may increase for people who take the medication for a long time.

NSAIDs may also interact with certain medications, including:

• other NSAIDs
• anticoagulants, such as warfarin
• oral steroids, such as prednisone
• selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine and citalopram
• serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as duloxetine

Read on for the differences between SSRIs and SNRIs.

Potential side effects

NSAIDs such as naproxen may cause side effects, which can include:

• diarrhea
• bloating and gas
• constipation
• ringing in the ears
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• nervousness

People should speak with a medical professional to discuss the potential side effects of NSAIDs.

Acetaminophen is an analgesic or pain reliever that also reduces fever. Some people take acetaminophen to reduce pain caused by osteoarthritis, a type of arthritis that affects the joints, including the knee. People also take acetaminophen to relieve other mild to moderate pain.

Examples of medications that contain acetaminophen include:

• Panadol
• Tylenol
• Actamin
• FeverAll

Dosage

The maximum amount of acetaminophen a person should take in one dose is 1,000 mg. A person should not take more than 4,000 mg per day.

Precautions

If a person takes too much acetaminophen, there is a risk of liver damage. This may be severe, require a liver transplant, or be fatal.

Potential side effects

Possible side effects include:

• rash
• itching
• hives
• swelling in the:
  • tongue
  • face
  • throat
  • ankles
  • feet
  • legs
• blistering or peeling skin
• difficulty swallowing or breathing
• hoarseness

People should speak with a doctor if they experience these symptoms after taking acetaminophen.

A person may require stronger medication for more severe pain, which a doctor can prescribe. These may include higher dosage NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors, also called coxibs.

Examples of prescribed NSAIDs include:

• high dose ibuprofen
• high dose naproxen
• diclofenac (Voltaren)

Examples of coxibs include celecoxib (Celebrex) and etoricoxib. A person can take these medications as tablets orally or apply them to the knee as a gel or cream.

Dosage

According to the National Library of Medicine, the maximum daily dose of each medication is:

• ibuprofen: 2,400 mg
• naproxen: 1,000 mg
• naproxen sodium: 1,375 mg
• diclofenac: 150 mg
• celecoxib: 400 mg
• etoricoxib: 60 mg

Precautions

People who take NSAIDs or coxibs are at risk of gastrointestinal problems. There is a greater risk of complications if a person:

• drinks alcohol frequently
• takes corticosteroids
• takes SSRIs
• takes blood thinning medication
• takes several anti-inflammatory pain relief medications together
• has had stomach bleeding or gastritis
• has gastrointestinal conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• has a bacterial infection with Helicobacter pylori, which can cause ulcers
• is 65 years or older

Potential side effects

Side effects of prescription NSAIDs and coxibs may include:

• indigestion and stomach pain
• gas and bloating
• ulcers
• constipation
• gastritis
• sore throat
• dizziness
• cold symptoms

If a person experiences any of these symptoms and is at high risk, they should consult a medical professional.

If a person has severe pain from injury or illness, such as arthritis, a doctor may administer an injection to treat the pain. Doctors may recommend hydrocortisone or hyaluronic acid injections.

Hydrocortisone injection

This type of injection is a corticosteroid. A doctor may administer a hydrocortisone injection directly into the knee joint.

This medication can treat knee pain from various causes, including injury, arthritis, and bursitis. The injection helps reduce swelling and pain and makes movement easier.

Dosage

A person may be able to have injections in the knee up to four times a year. The dosage can vary between 5 mg and 50 mg of hydrocortisone.

Precautions

Hydrocortisone may not be suitable for people who:

• have an infection
• have or have had depression
• have been in recent contact with a person who has:
  • measles
  • shingles
  • chickenpox
• have recently had vaccinations or are having vaccinations soon
• are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant

Hydrocortisone may also cause complications in people who have:

• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• osteoporosis
• glaucoma
• unhealed wounds

People should speak with a doctor about the injections’ potential risk factors and complications.

Potential side effects

Side effects of hydrocortisone injections may include pain and swelling at the injection site and bruising.

Serious side effects include:

• signs of infection such as:
  • fever
  • chills
  • sore throat
  • ear or sinus pain
• depression or mood swings
• puffy face or weight gain in the upper belly or back
• swelling and throbbing in the legs or arms
• chest pain
• confusion and sleepiness
• changes to vision

A person can speak with a medical professional if experiencing any of the side effects described above.

Hyaluronic acid

A doctor may inject hyaluronic acid into the knee to increase the supply of the acid. This can help relieve pain and may improve other symptoms of conditions that affect the knee joint, such as osteoarthritis.

Dosage

Depending on which hyaluronic acid a doctor uses, they may administer one to five injections over several weeks.

Precautions

If a person is pregnant or breastfeeding, they should let a doctor know before starting this medication. People should also inform a doctor if they develop an infection in the knee or a skin problem.

Potential side effects

Side effects of hyaluronic acid injection may include pain and swelling at the injection site and difficulty moving the knee immediately after the injection. These symptoms are usually temporary, and applying ice helps ease the pain.

Less common side effects include:

• bleeding
• blistering
• burning or coldness
• discoloration of skin
• hives or rash
• joint infection
• inflammation
• itching or stinging
• lumps
• numbness and tingling
• redness, soreness, and tenderness
• ulceration and warmth at the injection site

People should seek medical attention if they experience mild or more severe reactions.

Knee pain may sometimes go away on its own. If the pain is not severe, a person may be able to treat it at home by:

• putting as little weight as possible on the knee
• avoiding standing for a long time
• using an ice pack on the knee for up to 20 minutes every 2–3 hours
• taking acetaminophen

Learn more about the home remedies for knee pain.

To help prevent knee pain, a person can:

• balance rest and exercise
• maintain a moderate body weight
• wear suitable footwear with arch supports

A person should contact a doctor about knee pain if:

• the pain is severe
• there is swelling in the knee
• there is no improvement after a week
• there is no movement
• the knee cannot bear weight
• the knee locks or buckles

The medication a person receives for knee pain can depend on the cause and severity of the pain.

A person may take OTC medication for mild to moderate pain, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. If the pain is more severe, a person may require medication prescribed by a doctor, such as a higher dose of NSAID or COX-2 inhibitors. A doctor may sometimes administer injections and inject hydrocortisone or hyaluronic acid into the affected area.

A person can also treat knee pain at home by resting, raising the knee, and applying ice.

Best medication for knee pain: Types and side effects

Several medication options are available to treat knee pain, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription options, and injections.

Knee pain can start slowly and gradually worsen over time. The medication a person takes to treat knee pain will depend on the cause and severity of the pain.

There are many potential causes of knee pain, including:

• overuse
• arthritis
• Baker’s cyst
• infection in the joint
• bursitis
• torn cartilage
• strain or sprain

This article looks at the best medication for knee pain, home remedies, prevention of knee pain, and when to contact a doctor.

People may treat mild to moderate knee pain with over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen.

NSAIDs relieve inflammation and help with pain management. Some types of NSAIDs are available OTC to treat mild to moderate pain.

OTC NSAIDs includeibuprofen, available under brand names such as Motrin and Advil, and naproxen sodium, available under the brand name Aleve.

Dosage

An adult can take ibuprofen at 800–1,200 milligrams (mg) per day. For naproxen sodium, the daily dose should not be more than 1,375 mg.

A person should follow the instructions on the medication guide and never exceed the recommended daily dose.

Precautions

NSAIDs may increase the risk of stroke or heart attack, which may occur suddenly. These risks may be even higher in people who:

• smoke
• have previously had a heart attack or stroke
• have diabetes or high cholesterol

Doctors also associate NSAIDs with a risk of ulcers and holes and bleeding in the intestine and stomach. These risks may be higher for people who drink alcohol frequently, are older adults, or have other health conditions.

The risks associated with NSAIDs may increase for people who take the medication for a long time.

NSAIDs may also interact with certain medications, including:

• other NSAIDs
• anticoagulants, such as warfarin
• oral steroids, such as prednisone
• selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine and citalopram
• serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as duloxetine

Read on for the differences between SSRIs and SNRIs.

Potential side effects

NSAIDs such as naproxen may cause side effects, which can include:

• diarrhea
• bloating and gas
• constipation
• ringing in the ears
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• nervousness

People should speak with a medical professional to discuss the potential side effects of NSAIDs.

Acetaminophen is an analgesic or pain reliever that also reduces fever. Some people take acetaminophen to reduce pain caused by osteoarthritis, a type of arthritis that affects the joints, including the knee. People also take acetaminophen to relieve other mild to moderate pain.

Examples of medications that contain acetaminophen include:

• Panadol
• Tylenol
• Actamin
• FeverAll

Dosage

The maximum amount of acetaminophen a person should take in one dose is 1,000 mg. A person should not take more than 4,000 mg per day.

Precautions

If a person takes too much acetaminophen, there is a risk of liver damage. This may be severe, require a liver transplant, or be fatal.

Potential side effects

Possible side effects include:

• rash
• itching
• hives
• swelling in the:
  • tongue
  • face
  • throat
  • ankles
  • feet
  • legs
• blistering or peeling skin
• difficulty swallowing or breathing
• hoarseness

People should speak with a doctor if they experience these symptoms after taking acetaminophen.

A person may require stronger medication for more severe pain, which a doctor can prescribe. These may include higher dosage NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors, also called coxibs.

Examples of prescribed NSAIDs include:

• high dose ibuprofen
• high dose naproxen
• diclofenac (Voltaren)

Examples of coxibs include celecoxib (Celebrex) and etoricoxib. A person can take these medications as tablets orally or apply them to the knee as a gel or cream.

Dosage

According to the National Library of Medicine, the maximum daily dose of each medication is:

• ibuprofen: 2,400 mg
• naproxen: 1,000 mg
• naproxen sodium: 1,375 mg
• diclofenac: 150 mg
• celecoxib: 400 mg
• etoricoxib: 60 mg

Precautions

People who take NSAIDs or coxibs are at risk of gastrointestinal problems. There is a greater risk of complications if a person:

• drinks alcohol frequently
• takes corticosteroids
• takes SSRIs
• takes blood thinning medication
• takes several anti-inflammatory pain relief medications together
• has had stomach bleeding or gastritis
• has gastrointestinal conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• has a bacterial infection with Helicobacter pylori, which can cause ulcers
• is 65 years or older

Potential side effects

Side effects of prescription NSAIDs and coxibs may include:

• indigestion and stomach pain
• gas and bloating
• ulcers
• constipation
• gastritis
• sore throat
• dizziness
• cold symptoms

If a person experiences any of these symptoms and is at high risk, they should consult a medical professional.

If a person has severe pain from injury or illness, such as arthritis, a doctor may administer an injection to treat the pain. Doctors may recommend hydrocortisone or hyaluronic acid injections.

Hydrocortisone injection

This type of injection is a corticosteroid. A doctor may administer a hydrocortisone injection directly into the knee joint.

This medication can treat knee pain from various causes, including injury, arthritis, and bursitis. The injection helps reduce swelling and pain and makes movement easier.

Dosage

A person may be able to have injections in the knee up to four times a year. The dosage can vary between 5 mg and 50 mg of hydrocortisone.

Precautions

Hydrocortisone may not be suitable for people who:

• have an infection
• have or have had depression
• have been in recent contact with a person who has:
  • measles
  • shingles
  • chickenpox
• have recently had vaccinations or are having vaccinations soon
• are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant

Hydrocortisone may also cause complications in people who have:

• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• osteoporosis
• glaucoma
• unhealed wounds

People should speak with a doctor about the injections’ potential risk factors and complications.

Potential side effects

Side effects of hydrocortisone injections may include pain and swelling at the injection site and bruising.

Serious side effects include:

• signs of infection such as:
  • fever
  • chills
  • sore throat
  • ear or sinus pain
• depression or mood swings
• puffy face or weight gain in the upper belly or back
• swelling and throbbing in the legs or arms
• chest pain
• confusion and sleepiness
• changes to vision

A person can speak with a medical professional if experiencing any of the side effects described above.

Hyaluronic acid

A doctor may inject hyaluronic acid into the knee to increase the supply of the acid. This can help relieve pain and may improve other symptoms of conditions that affect the knee joint, such as osteoarthritis.

Dosage

Depending on which hyaluronic acid a doctor uses, they may administer one to five injections over several weeks.

Precautions

If a person is pregnant or breastfeeding, they should let a doctor know before starting this medication. People should also inform a doctor if they develop an infection in the knee or a skin problem.

Potential side effects

Side effects of hyaluronic acid injection may include pain and swelling at the injection site and difficulty moving the knee immediately after the injection. These symptoms are usually temporary, and applying ice helps ease the pain.

Less common side effects include:

• bleeding
• blistering
• burning or coldness
• discoloration of skin
• hives or rash
• joint infection
• inflammation
• itching or stinging
• lumps
• numbness and tingling
• redness, soreness, and tenderness
• ulceration and warmth at the injection site

People should seek medical attention if they experience mild or more severe reactions.

Knee pain may sometimes go away on its own. If the pain is not severe, a person may be able to treat it at home by:

• putting as little weight as possible on the knee
• avoiding standing for a long time
• using an ice pack on the knee for up to 20 minutes every 2–3 hours
• taking acetaminophen

Learn more about the home remedies for knee pain.

To help prevent knee pain, a person can:

• balance rest and exercise
• maintain a moderate body weight
• wear suitable footwear with arch supports

A person should contact a doctor about knee pain if:

• the pain is severe
• there is swelling in the knee
• there is no improvement after a week
• there is no movement
• the knee cannot bear weight
• the knee locks or buckles

The medication a person receives for knee pain can depend on the cause and severity of the pain.

A person may take OTC medication for mild to moderate pain, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. If the pain is more severe, a person may require medication prescribed by a doctor, such as a higher dose of NSAID or COX-2 inhibitors. A doctor may sometimes administer injections and inject hydrocortisone or hyaluronic acid into the affected area.

A person can also treat knee pain at home by resting, raising the knee, and applying ice.

Knee pain – what pharmaceuticals can help?

The knee is a unique mechanism that nature has endowed us with. The knee joint is both simple and complex at the same time, we live with it and, unfortunately, we often notice it only when it starts to hurt. Of all the joints in the body, the knee is at the highest risk of injury, wear and tear, and inflammatory disease.

The structure of the knee joint is not easy – it is a complex of ligaments, muscles, nerves, blood vessels, cartilage and bones. The basis of the joint is 3 bones: the femur (top), tibia (bottom) and the patella, or patella (in front). They are connected to each other by tendons and ligaments, the main task of which is to securely hold the bones and ensure the stability of the knee during any type of movement. The surfaces of the bones inside the joint are covered with cartilage, and all together it is surrounded by the articular bag, the inner shell of which produces synovial fluid into the joint cavity, which includes hyaluronic acid. Synovial fluid is essential for lubricating and nourishing the joint. It is its sufficient presence that ensures the ability of the knee to fully move, without pain and crunch.

The service life of cartilage depends on many factors: a person’s lifestyle, weight, nutrition, past injuries, work, and most often is 40-60 years.

The main symptoms by which you can understand that something is wrong with the knee are: swelling, changes in the temperature of this part of the body, impaired mobility of the joint, and, of course, pain during movement and even at rest.

Pain can be acute or chronic. Acute pain occurs suddenly, causes severe discomfort, is accompanied by swelling and difficulty in movement. The most common cause is injury or overexertion.

Chronic pain – can last for a long time, is characterized by an undulating course: periods of inflammation and intensification of symptoms are replaced by remission, when pain in the knee may not remind of itself or manifest itself only by stiffness of movement in the morning. Chronic pain is more insidious. A person gets used to living with them, does not go to the doctor, and at this time the processes of destruction of the joint are hidden.

Why do my knees hurt?

1. Injuries:

• bruises;
• stretching;
• dislocations;
• fractures.

2. Degenerative-dystrophic diseases:

• arthrosis – “drying” and destruction of cartilage. Initially, pain appears, and then the range of motion decreases. The most common joint disease.
• osteochondropathy is a violation of the nutrition of bone tissue, which causes bone destruction.

3. Inflammatory diseases:

• arthritis – inflammation of the joint and periarticular tissue, which leads to joint deformity and cartilage destruction;
• bursitis is an inflammation of the joint capsule, due to which the amount of synovial fluid in it increases and its composition changes;
• tendovaginitis – inflammation of the synovial membranes of the tendon;
• synovitis is an inflammation that affects the synovial membrane of the joints and the sheath of the ligaments, in which excess fluid accumulates in the joint.

How to treat knee pain?

There is no one effective way to solve knee problems. We need a set of measures. Medicines, orthopedic products, physiotherapy exercises and physiotherapy are the main means that help to cope with the disease.

Before you get rid of the pain yourself, it is advisable to be examined by a specialist. The doctor will identify the causes of the disease and prescribe the necessary treatment for you.

Medicines and dietary supplements:

1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) relieve pain and inflammation of the joint. These are drugs containing diclofenac, meloxicam, ketoprofen, nimesulide and others.

2. Local irritants are topical agents in the form of ointments, gels or rubs that are applied to the skin of a problem joint. They relieve pain and have a pain-relieving effect. Also, due to the medicinal substances contained in their composition (methyl salicylate, allyl isothiocyanate, dimethyl sulfoxide), the capillaries of the skin expand, more oxygen enters the tissues and the removal of toxins is accelerated.

It should be remembered that locally irritating medications are used for chronic pain. With severe swelling and inflammation, you can not use them!

3. Chondroprotectors stimulate the formation of collagen, stop the process of cartilage destruction. They can be used in the form of injections, intramuscular injections and gels. These are drugs based on glucosamine and chondroitin.

4. Synovial fluid prostheses are substances that replace lost synovial fluid. They are administered by a doctor, by injection, directly into the joint bag. The main active ingredients used for these procedures are sodium hyaluronate and collagen.

5. Biologically active additives (BAA) are prescribed as an additional treatment. Most often, they contain plant components and methods of traditional medicine.

Orthopedic products for the knee.

1. The main orthopedic product is a knee brace. It is put on the knee joint and is designed to fix it, stabilize it, unload it and reduce pain when moving. Wearing a knee brace can significantly shorten the period of treatment and recovery of the knee. The range of knee pads is huge! We will talk more about how to choose a knee brace below.

2. In addition to knee pads, it is useful to wear orthopedic insoles, which reduce the shock load on the diseased joint and shorten the period of exacerbation. It is possible to choose insoles taking into account various additional features, such as: for different seasons, in different shoes, and so on. You can read more about insoles in the article.

Therapy.

1. Physiotherapy is a treatment with the help of devices and various procedures: laser therapy, magnetotherapy, current therapy, therapeutic massage, ultrasound, etc. The treatment is aimed at interrupting pain, reducing inflammation and accelerating joint recovery.

2. Exercise therapy (physiotherapy exercises) – special physical exercises during the period of treatment and rehabilitation, the most important task of which is to restore the blood circulation of the joint. And the normalization of blood circulation will restore the nutrition of the joint, eliminate oxygen deficiency in the tissues of the joint, remove swelling and stabilize the joint.

In order for the pain to decrease already in the first day, you need to fix the joint and thereby remove the load from it when walking. This is what knee pads are for.

The knee brace is an important orthopedic device that shortens the period of treatment and rehabilitation, and may also be needed for permanent wear in chronic diseases of the musculoskeletal system. In our pharmacy you will find knee pads of various types, differing both in their functions and in price.

To make a decision: which of the knee pads to buy, you should understand how they differ from each other and what problems they solve.

Material .

Knee pads are made from different materials: natural and synthetic. The main requirement: to fix the joint well, to be wear-resistant, to pass air and moisture.

Classics are woolen and cotton knee pads. Wool has a massage and warming effect, improves blood flow to the joint, thereby reducing knee pain. Cotton “breathes” well and is comfortable when wearing the retainer for a long time.

An alternative to natural fibers is synthetic materials made using modern technologies. They are resistant to wear, hypoallergenic, durable and lightweight.

The most popular polyamide and elastane: provide air and moisture permeability, strength and lightness. Knee pads made of them do not rub in places of bends, do not wrinkle, dry quickly and are not subject to the formation of fungus.

Aeroprene or neoprene: has a pronounced massage and warming effect. And in order to prevent excessive overheating of the joint, they are perforated (with many micro-holes) throughout the surface.

The main difference between different knee pads is in the degree of fixation of the joint and in the design, due to which fixation is ensured.

The main principle of the use of orthopedic products: the more serious the damage, the stronger the fixation.

And we will start with products of easy fixation.

Light hold products.

Made from elastic fabric that helps reduce swelling, massages and reduces pain.

As a rule, this is bandage – an elastic fitting knee bandage. Fits snugly to the leg and distributes the load on the joint, while maintaining full mobility. The degree of fixation of the bandage can be increased with the help of additional tension tapes.

Warming bandage – made of neoprene or knitwear with the addition of natural wool. It has micromassage and warming effects, enhances the effect of ointments, gels and other agents applied to the joint.

Important! Woolen bandages are not used in the acute period after injuries or in the first week of an exacerbation of a chronic disease – heat dilates blood vessels, and with them the focus of inflammation increases.

Medium hold products.

Most of these fasteners are on the market. Also, like bandages, they are made of elastic materials. Often they have inserts: silicone or flexible metal.

Another name for them: Orthosis is a bandage that, due to a more complex design, coordinates the biomechanics of the injured joint. Orthoses differ in their effect on the joint, which is ensured by such structural elements as:

• Suprapatellar ring in the area of ​​the patella. The ring supports the kneecap, reduces swelling or prevents its occurrence.
• Stiffeners and metal plates. Thanks to them, the fixation of the joint will be even stronger. These inserts limit the “reeling” of the joint in a certain plane, prevent pathological movements and prevent the bandage from twisting.
• Detachable design. Facilitates donning, redistributes pressure above and below the knee.
• polycentric hinges. They are used in such a product as a brace. This is an even more complex orthosis that fixes the joint at a certain angle of extension. Adjustment of flexion/extension occurs simultaneously in different planes, which corresponds to the natural physiology of movements.
• Telescopic side rails. Allows you to adjust the height of the product.

Strong hold products.

The main task of such products is to immobilize the joint as much as possible for a certain time, to ensure the conditions of orthopedic rest necessary for treatment. They have powerful stiffening ribs and they are made of dense low-stretch or completely in-stretch fabric, because their main task is to immobilize the knee until it is fully restored. Also in such products there are additional belts for better fixation.
Splint or immobilizing splint – has no amplitude of flexion and extension of the knee joint, and completely limits the movement of the limb. Such devices are used instead of gypsum.

Warning! The degree of fixation of the orthosis on the first day after a severe injury is selected by the doctor.

How to find out the size of the knee brace?

To choose the right size knee brace, you need to follow a simple algorithm of actions:

1. Measure the circumference of the knee joint (at the level of the patella), in a slightly bent position at the knee;
2. Measure the circumference of the leg 5 cm below and 15 cm above the kneecap.

Each manufacturer of goods on our website has its own size chart.

How to wear an orthopedic knee brace?

1. Carefully read the instructions on the packaging to avoid confusion;
2. Put on the orthotic immediately after sleep, before the leg begins to swell;
3. Sit in a comfortable position, bend your leg, and carefully slide the brace onto it so that the kneecap does not move. Tighten the straps starting at the joint;
4. Do not overtighten the leg with the straps. The product should sit tightly, but not to the point of pulsation.

If a knee brace is needed to prevent and relieve pain when moving, then it is better to wear it during activity. In this mode, you can use it for a long time – about 12 hours and periodically remove it.

The orthosis is worn approximately the same way: up to 12-14 hours a day. Unless, of course, the doctor prescribes otherwise.

If this is a splint, then you do not need to remove it – the doctor will determine the period of wearing.

Unfortunately, it is not always possible to prevent knee pain. And sometimes, after treatment, it can resume again and develop into a chronic one. Therefore, always remember about prevention and support measures:

• Move more. Walk, walk, use every opportunity to move! And of course, always warm up before your workout;
• Eat right. If necessary, take vitamins and special food supplements;
• Watch your body weight. Remember that every extra kilogram increases the risk of injuries and diseases of the joints;
• Try to periodically change the position of the body and the load – standing or sitting in one position for a long time does not load the knees correctly and evenly;
• Seek help from experts in a timely manner. Get regular medical check-ups.
• Buy and use in work and sports orthopedic devices that will help protect your joints.

PHARMEKONOM pharmacies have a large selection of knee pads and other orthopedic products. Here you will always be helped with the choice, advise on the selection of the size.

Regularly pay attention to the state of your body and be healthy!

list of top 7 effective and inexpensive remedies according to KP

Pain, inflammation and swelling are common symptoms of joint diseases. Anti-inflammatory drugs for the joints will help eliminate unpleasant symptoms and take the disease under control.

List of top 7 anti-inflammatory drugs for joints according to KP

We have compiled a list of anti-inflammatory drugs for joints, our list includes drugs from several pharmacological groups:

• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) of selective and non-selective action;
• glucocorticoids or corticosteroid hormones;
• basic anti-inflammatory drugs or immunosuppressants;
• chondroprotectors and hyaluronic acid preparations;
• antibacterial preparations;
• preparations for lowering uric acid;
• other anti-inflammatory agents.

Important! All drugs have side effects and contraindications. Our material is an overview and does not serve as a guide to action. Before buying drugs, consult your doctor.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Drugs from this group help relieve pain, swelling, improve joint mobility, reduce body temperature. In some rheumatic diseases (for example, Bechterew’s disease), these drugs can be used as the main treatment.

There is no ideal NSAID, because some of them negatively affect the gastrointestinal tract and can provoke stomach pain, gastritis, erosion, ulcers, while taking others can cause cardiovascular complications: increased blood pressure and edema. With a very long or uncontrolled intake of NSAIDs, damage to the kidneys, liver, and blood cells of organs can develop.

Some NSAIDs like nimesulide and etoricoxib are banned in some countries but used in others. Naproxen and ibuprofen are considered among the safest for patients with cardiovascular diseases, while celecoxib and etoricoxib are considered as neutral as possible for the gastrointestinal tract.

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Chemically, paracetamol also belongs to the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, it is the anti-inflammatory effect that it practically lacks, so its use is limited mainly by antipyretic and analgesic effects. But that is why it does not affect the gastrointestinal tract so much.

Glucocorticoids (GCS)

Glucocorticosteroid hormones have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, but long-term use or high doses can cause many side effects. When long-term steroid use is needed, doctors aim for a minimal dose and use maintenance therapy with other drugs.

Taking corticosteroids in ultra-high doses of 1000 mg for several days is called “pulse therapy” and allows you to quickly control severe inflammatory processes in the joints, internal organs, and the nervous system. In some cases, doctors may inject steroids locally into the affected joint.

When prescribing steroids, doctors usually recommend controlling blood pressure, glucose, prescribing drugs to “protect” the stomach, as well as calcium supplements to reduce the negative effect of corticosteroids on bones.

Immunosuppressants

This is a large group of drugs, which is divided into biological and non-biological drugs. Their main task is to stop the progression of rheumatic disease, as well as reduce the patient’s need for steroids.

Non-biological preparations include agents based on hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, methotrexate, leflunomide, mycophenolate mofetil, cyclophosphamide, and some others. The first substance helps to reduce the frequency of exacerbations and allows you to control the course of such a formidable disease as systemic lupus erythematosus. Sulfasalazine may be prescribed for mild joint disease, and methotrexate is often the gold standard for rheumatoid arthritis.

In recent decades, biological preparations have become increasingly popular. Often these are large protein molecules that are administered intravenously or subcutaneously in solution and act pointwise on one of the links in the inflammatory response. However, they often cause infectious complications, and when they are taken, it is necessary to monitor blood counts every 1-3 months in order to track possible side effects in time and take action.

Doses and regimens of treatment with basic antirheumatic drugs are very complex and are selected individually by the attending physician, depending on the nature and severity of the disease.

Chondroprotectors and hyaluronic acid preparations

Chondroprotectors are included in the official European guidelines for the treatment of certain types of arthrosis, as they help reduce joint pain and other symptoms. However, recent studies have shown that the well-known chondroprotector glucosamine can also slow down the progression of the disease.

In addition to glucosamine, chondroitin, diacerein and saponifiable oils of soy and avocado can alleviate the symptoms of arthrosis. Usually drugs with these substances are well tolerated, which allows them to be taken for a long time. However, glucosamine preparations can increase blood glucose levels in susceptible patients, and diacerein can cause diarrhea.

With regard to hyaluronic acid, a more or less proven analgesic effect is described when it is injected into the knee joints. Other substances (MSM, collagen, oral hyaluronic acid) require more careful study to determine their role in the arthrosis treatment regimen.

Antibacterial drugs

This group of drugs has limited use in rheumatology. Antibiotics are usually prescribed for reactive arthritis caused by a specific microorganism. The biggest problem can be the treatment of borreliosis (an infection carried by ticks). Sometimes long, repeated courses of antibiotics lasting more than a month are required.

Drugs to lower blood uric acid levels

In some patients, inflammation of the joints may occur due to excessive accumulation of uric acid in them. This is often associated with a genetic predisposition and a diet high in red meat, game, legumes, and organ meats. Allopurinol and febuxostat are commonly used to reduce excess uric acid production. Against the background of their intake, the joints begin to be cleared of uric acid crystals, and arthritis recedes. Patients with gout need to take these drugs for life.

Other anti-inflammatory drugs

Special mention should be made of colchicine, which also has an anti-inflammatory effect. It is most commonly used for acute attacks of gout or chronic gouty arthritis, pseudogout, Behçet’s disease, and familial Mediterranean fever. The most common side effect of colchicine is diarrhea.

How to choose anti-inflammatory drugs for joints

A banal but correct answer to this question is to consult a general practitioner or a narrow specialist: an orthopedist or a rheumatologist. Joint diseases are very diverse – it can be trauma, reactive arthritis against the background of an infectious disease, rheumatoid arthritis, gouty and psoriatic arthritis.

Do not forget about the articular syndrome after suffering a coronavirus infection. Therefore, when choosing an anti-inflammatory drug for the joints, the cause that provoked the pathological process must be taken into account.

In addition, when prescribing anti-inflammatory drugs for joints, the doctor pays attention to such factors as:

There is also individual sensitivity to the drug. Many chronically ill patients have a “favorite” drug that works best for them. Therefore, the best anti-inflammatory drug for joints is often selected empirically until the most effective one is found.

Popular questions and answers

Our experts answer popular questions : rheumatologist Aliya Sarmanova, Ph.D. Dmitry Garkavi and pharmacist Nadezhda Ershova . Experts explained how NSAIDs work, how to use them correctly, and how to minimize the harmful effects of drugs on the gastrointestinal tract.

How do anti-inflammatory drugs work?

– Non-selective and selective anti-inflammatory drugs work differently in the body. To understand the principle of their work, it is important to know that inflammation in the body is caused by special substances – prostaglandins. They are produced in our body with the participation of special enzymes – cyclooxygenases 1 and 2 types.

Non-selective anti-inflammatory drugs block both types of enzymes, preventing the synthesis of prostaglandins, and thus stop inflammation ¹ . However, this has a side effect. Cyclooxygenase type 1 is simultaneously involved in the production of mucus for the stomach ² and, by blocking it, NSAIDs provoke irritation of the gastric mucosa up to ulcers and bleeding.

Selective anti-inflammatory drugs block only type 2 enzymes, so the stomach does not suffer when they are taken ¹ .

Glucocorticoids have a different mechanism of action. They activate the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins and at the same time suppress the production of substances that are involved in the development of the inflammatory process.

How to use NSAIDs for joints?

– Most NSAIDs are available from pharmacies without a prescription, but this does not mean that they can be taken without supervision. Therefore, be sure to consult your doctor, especially if:

• you have to take NSAIDs for more than 3-5 consecutive days;
• you have chronic diseases of the kidneys and liver, hypertension, heart failure, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, bleeding tendency.

Before consulting with a specialist, it is recommended to carefully study the instructions for the drug, especially the section “Contraindications” and “Side effects”. If you start taking NSAIDs, then follow a few rules:

• do not take medicine on an empty stomach;
• Do not exceed the dosage and duration recommended by the manufacturer.

In acute pain, it is better to start with selective NSAIDs, which have less effect on the gastrointestinal tract. However, at the first opportunity, you should consult a doctor, even if relief has come. The fact is that NSAIDs are able to “extinguish” the pain syndrome and create a false sense of recovery. But at the same time, the inflammatory process in the joints will continue its destructive work.

Which anti-inflammatory drugs are less harmful to the stomach?

– If we compare the dosage forms, then the least irritating to the stomach are topical agents – ointments, gels and patches. This is due to the fact that only a small amount of the active substance is absorbed into the bloodstream and affects the entire body.