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KNEE PAIN

KNEE PAIN. By Mary Knutson R.N. Why Do We Get Knee Injuries?. Your knee is the largest joint in your body and quite complex. It is very susceptible to injury because of its exposed location, and the bending, straightening and twisting it does each day.

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KNEE PAIN

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  1. KNEE PAIN By Mary Knutson R.N.

  2. Why Do We Get Knee Injuries? • Your knee is the largest joint in your body and quite complex. • It is very susceptible to injury because of its exposed location, and the bending, straightening and twisting it does each day. • It is not designed to handle sideways stress, and it carries a lot of weight. • Knee injuries can be sports related, from trauma, or simply from wear and tear on the joint.

  3. Strains and sprains from sudden twists or blows to your knee. Tendonitis, possibly as a result of intense bicycling, running or stair climbing. Bursitis, an inflammation of the tiny fluid-filled sacs cushioning the knee. Osteoarthritis, a form of arthritis can cause pain with movement. Torn cartilage or ligaments in your knee caused by twisting or impact. Loose pieces of your kneecap or cartilage that becomes pinched in the knee joint. A tender, bulging cyst behind the knee (popliteal or Baker’s cyst). Knee Pain Can Be From:

  4. P.R.I.C.E. : Your Best Tool for Muscle or Joint Injury • P: Protect the area from further injury. Can use sling, splint, or elastic bandage. • R: Rest to promote tissue healing. Avoid activities that cause pain, swelling or discomfort. • I: Ice the area, (about 15 minutes each time) to reduce swelling, inflammation and to slow bleeding. Repeat every 2-3 hours for the first 48-72 hours while awake. • C: Compress the area with elastic bandage until swelling stops. (But not too tightly.) • Elevate the affected leg or arm above your heart, especially at night, to reduce swelling.

  5. Pain Medication • You may take an anti-inflammatory medication. • Consult you doctor or pharmacist about possible drug interactions, and which over-the-counter pain reliever is best for you. • Don’t exceed the recommended dose. Read and follow label directions. • Avoid alcohol. • Take it with food or milk to lessen stomach upset. • Remember that you may not feel injury-alerting pain after you take pain medication. • Don’t take pain medication any longer than necessary. Re-evaluate your need for it periodically.

  6. Flex and straighten your leg gently every day. If it’s difficult, someone can help you move it at first. If you use a cane, carry it on the side that’s not injured. Avoid strenuous activity until your knee heals. Start non-impact exercises slowly. Avoid squatting, kneeling or walking up and down hills. Activity Recommendations

  7. Seek Medical Care Immediately If: • You have intense, immediate pain and our knee doesn’t function properly. • Your knee is loose or unstable, or if it is painful, even when you’re not putting weight on it. • Pain follows a popping sound or snapping sensation. • Your knee locks rigidly in one position, or the kneecap is visibly deformed. • Rapid, unexplained swelling or a fever occurs. If pain is not improving after 1 week of home treatment, see your health-care provider.

  8. Prevention of Knee Pain • Exercise regularly to strengthen your knee muscles. • Use warm-up and cool-down exercises. • Use pain relievers with caution. Do not over-exert and damage tissue without realizing it. • Bend your knee only to 90 degree angle during exercise. • Don’t do keep knee bends. • Cushion your knees when kneeling. • Begin a new sport gradually. • Take frequent breaks from repetitive tasks.

  9. This information was collected from: • Mayo Clinic’s HealthQuest, Guide to Self Care (1999). • Philip T. Hagen, Editor-in-Chief • Published by Mayo Foundation for Education and Research Be sure to also consult your physician for any pain or injury concerns.

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