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53<br />
Lose weight<br />
Losing weight may seem an impossible task. However,<br />
it can be done and studies prove this often leads to a<br />
significant reduction in pain and improved mobility.<br />
In a 2007 review (Christensen R. et al) of four studies<br />
involving 454 patients with OA, those who lost 5% of their<br />
body weight over twenty weeks demonstrated a marked<br />
improvement in pain and much improved mobility.<br />
Pain relief<br />
Try paracetamol along with non-steroidal anti-<br />
Inflammatory (NSAID) drugs such as ibuprofen,<br />
diclofenac and naproxen. NSAIDS reduce inflammation in<br />
the arthritic joint. An NSAID gel rubbed into the joint may<br />
be helpful.<br />
Your GP will discuss other medication options with you:<br />
• Drugs called COX-2 inhibitors, such as celecoxib, are<br />
very effective anti-inflammatories. Sometimes opiates<br />
such as co-codamol are advised.<br />
• Capsaicin cream can be applied to the knee joint.<br />
• A steroid can be injected directly into the joint. <strong>St</strong>eroids<br />
are powerful anti-inflammatories.<br />
• Alternatively, try Transcutaneous electrical nerve<br />
stimulation (TENS).<br />
• The efficacy of hyaluronic acid injections has not been<br />
substantially proven but may have benefits for some.<br />
Other lifestyle tips<br />
• Try to reduce the strain on your knees and spread your<br />
weight evenly by using a stick.<br />
• <strong>St</strong>art the day with a hot bath or shower – the heat eases<br />
joint stiffness.<br />
• Try using hot pads or an ice pack on the sore joint.<br />
• Massage has been found to be helpful for pain relief.<br />
• Sometimes your doctor may suggest use of a knee<br />
brace.<br />
Complementary and Alternative<br />
therapies<br />
Glucosamine, curcumin, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty<br />
acids all appear safe, but there is a lack of medical<br />
evidence for their efficacy.<br />
Mindfulness, meditation and acupuncture have all been<br />
advocated and can help improve symptoms.
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