In the back of your mind, have you known for a long time that the pain in your knee was a serious matter? Perhaps you have tried over-the-counter-medications already. Perhaps they even helped for a little while. Yet, the pain returned. If this scenario seems way too familiar, read on for some ideas that might help you.
Things You Can Try Yourself - First, in addition to the over-the-counter pain pills, think of also buying a liniment that might help your knee to feel better. Pay attention to what makes your knee feel better. For instance, does taking walks help, or do you experience greater pain afterward? Have you tried both icy compresses and a heating pad, alternating them? Have you tried to sleep with a pillow under your knees? See if that helps. After all, it's worth a try.
Massage therapy is another idea. If you do go to a massage therapist, be sure to tell him or her that you are experiencing pain in your knee. In addition to the massage, the very oils that are used might truly soothe your knee.
Go On To The Next Step - If you have tried everything you can think of to get relief from the knee pain you are experiencing, it's probably time for you to see a doctor. He or she will probably get X-rays taken of your knee to see what the problem is. If your doctor reports that you need a knee replacement, don't panic. However, you should plan to be out of commission for a while after your surgery has been performed.
You may be given exercises to be performed before the surgery takes place. That might seem strange, but do them. Remember that your doctor has the training and the experience to counsel you. In addition, you might get an injection for the pain. That injection should help a lot until surgery can be done.
Your doctor also has the skills to do a complete knee replacement.Yes, there will probably be some pretty bad pain. However, you will be given excellent pain medications. Take them religiously. Very soon after your surgery, you'll be given exercises. You might even be asked to go to physical therapy. Do the post-operation exercises consistently. In fact, even though the exercises might be bothersome and even painful, they are one of the greatest keys in your knee replacement's success.
For more information, contact a medical center like Omaha Orthopedic Clinic & Sports Medicine PC.
