Have An Arthritic Knee? Use These Tips For More Comfort

The pain of an arthritic knee can result in drastic changes to your life. Being in pain as you go about normal life activities like getting up from a chair or walking can mean that you spend more time sitting around and you might not be as social as you used to be. Luckily, you can investigate the following two avenues that can relieve you of some of the stress and discomfort that arthritis is causing you.

Use a Brace

One of the most effective ways to move around with a higher degree of comfort when you've got an arthritic knee is to obtain a good brace. A brace will stabilize the area and provide additional support to your knee while allowing the leg to move freely. This can take away some of the discomfort you feel when you're walking around or getting up and down.

There are numerous options for you when you finally want a brace and there are many places to buy from, from medical orthopedic supply stores to pharmacies and some supermarkets. However, the brace model you choose is likely to depend on what you want to use it for. For example, a standard unloader brace can give you the strength necessary to get up and sit back down without wincing in pain. If you're hoping to take a nightly walk around the neighborhood, which can also help your knee feel slightly better, a neoprene brace could be a smart choice. That's because it's made of soft material that is hollowed on the kneecap, making movement easier.

Once you've got your brace, to avoid additional health problems such as rashes or infection caused by the brace against your skin, know how to care for it. Frequent washing and dusting some medicated powder into the brace or on your knee before wearing it can help.

Watch Your Diet

When you have arthritis, another important consideration is diet. Some people have mild allergies to foods without realizing it or have some kind of sensitivity to different foods that could end up aggravating that arthritic knee. For instance, some people report that potatoes and other nightshade vegetables seem to make their arthritis worse. You might want to experiment with eliminating certain foods to see if your knee feels better in their absence.

It's also important to be aware that you're consuming foods that encourage joint health, such as those containing vitamin C, and that you're generally working on eating a high amount of anti-inflammatory foods like fruits and many green vegetables. Talk to your doctor about any supplements and changes in your diet to ensure you're being safe.

Being more comfortable with your arthritic knee is possible; try these suggestions. Consulting your physician and orthopedic specialists can provide even more tips to try.

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