Local Life - Wigan - April 2021

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Take them regularly – don’t wait for the pain to build-up.
An NSAID gel rubbed into the joint may be helpful. If you
suffer with gastritis, these are sometimes prescribed with
medication to protect your stomach lining.
Your GP will discuss other medication options with you:
• Drugs called COX-2 inhibitors, such as celecoxib, are
very effective anti-inflammatories. Sometimes opiates
such as co-codamol are advised.
• Capsaicin cream can be applied to the knee joint.
• A steroid can be injected directly into the joint. Steroids
are powerful anti-inflammatories and can be very
effective.
• Alternatively, try Transcutaneous electrical nerve
stimulation (TENS).
• The efficacy of hyaluronic acid injections has not been
substantially proven but may have benefits for some.
Other lifestyle tips
• Try to reduce the strain on your knees and spread your
weight evenly by using a stick.
• Start the day with a hot bath or shower – the heat eases
joint stiffness.
• Try using hot pads or an ice pack on the sore joint.
• Massage has been found to be helpful for pain relief.
• Sometimes your doctor may suggest use of a knee
brace.
Complementary and Alternative
therapies
Glucosamine, curcumin, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty
acids all appear safe, but there is a lack of medical
evidence for their efficacy.
Mindfulness, meditation and acupuncture have all been
advocated and can help improve symptoms.
Surgery
The NHS no longer recommends arthroscopy for arthritic
knees. Research studies found this failed to improve
symptoms for most patients.
However, you may be referred for a knee replacement if
your symptoms are severe. Knee replacement surgery is
highly effective and greatly improves symptoms, mobility
and quality of life.