Helpful Remedies for knee pain

Knee pain is a very common medical condition that occurs due to constant wear and tear of the knee joint. It can be experienced by older adults, young adults and children. Women are more vulnerable to knee pain than men.

The exact location of the knee pain can vary. Pain can originate in any of the bony structures compromising the knee joint (femur, tibia and fibula), the kneecap (patella) or the ligaments and cartilage (meniscus).

Knee pain can be localized or diffuse throughout the knee. Also, the severity of pain can vary from a minor ache to severe and disabling pain.

In addition to pain, you may have symptoms like stiffness in the knee, noticeable swelling, redness, numbness in the affected leg and difficulty walking or standing.

Don’t let knee pain sideline you from doing the things you enjoy. You can take care of your knee pain with some simple and easy home remedies.

These remedies are most helpful for mild to moderate pain caused by overuse, lack of use or improper training. They can also help with knee pain associated with aging and conditions like arthritis but you also need to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is also helpful in reducing knee pain. Due to its alkalizing effect, apple cider vinegar helps dissolve mineral build-ups and harmful toxins within the knee joint. It also helps restore joint lubricants to help reduce pain and promote mobility.

• Mix two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in two cups of filtered water. Sip this mixture throughout the day. Drink this tonic daily until you recover completely.
• You can also add two cups of apple cider vinegar to a bath tub of hot water. Soak the affected knee in the water for 30 minutes. Do this once daily for a few days.
• Also, you can mix together one tablespoon each of apple cider vinegar and olive oil. Use it to massage the affected knee once or twice daily until the pain is gone.

2. Ginger

Whether knee pain is due to arthritis, muscle strain or injury, ginger is an effective remedy to alleviate the pain. Its effectiveness comes from the presence of anti-inflammatory compounds in it. Ginger can reduce swelling on the knee as well as the pain.

• Crush a small piece of fresh ginger root, add to one cup of water and boil it for 10 minutes. Strain and add a little honey and lemon juice. Drink two to three cups of this ginger tea daily until the pain is gone.
• You can also massage the affected knee with ginger oil two or three times a day until you are satisfied with the results.

3. Turmeric

Turmeric is an effective and natural treatment to relieve knee pain. Turmeric contains a chemical called curcumin that has anti-inflammatory as well as antioxidant properties that help reduce pain.

Also, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) reports that turmeric may slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis, one of the main causes of knee pain.

4. Lemon

Lemon has also been found beneficial as a home remedy for knee pain caused by arthritis. The citric acid found in lemon works as a solvent for uric acid crystals, which is the cause of some types of arthritis.

1. Cut one or two lemons into small pieces.
2. Tie the pieces in a cotton cloth and dip it in warm sesame oil.
3. Place the cloth on the affected knee for five to 10 minutes.
4. Do this twice daily until the pain is gone completely.

Also, drinking the juice of one lemon diluted in a glass of warm water early in the morning on an empty stomach is also beneficial.

5. Mustard Oil

According to Ayurveda, a gentle massage of the painful knee with warm mustard oil eases inflammation, improves blood circulation in the region and relieves pain.

1. Heat two tablespoons of mustard oil.
2. Fry one garlic clove (chopped) in it until it turns brown.
3. Cool and strain the oil.
4. Massage your aching knee with the lukewarm oil in circular motions.
5. Cover the knee with plastic wrap and use warm towels to apply heat for a few minutes.
6. Do this twice daily for about one or two weeks.

6. Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds can also be used to relieve knee pain due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Also, fenugreek seeds are warm in nature and considered very beneficial for those suffering from knee pain due to arthritis.

• Soak one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in filtered water overnight. In the morning, drain off the water and munch on the seeds. Do this daily for one or two weeks.
• Roast and grind a handful of fenugreek seeds and store them in an airtight jar. Mix two teaspoons of this powder and add enough water to make a thick paste. Apply the paste on the affected knee area. Leave it on for 30 minutes and then rinse it off with warm water. Use this remedy twice daily for a week.