Alternative methods to help reduce chronic knee pain

For minor injuries that cause knee pain, icing the area is often the best method of treatment. However, if your knee pain is caused by something else, icing may not work to reduce your pain. In this situation, try one of the other common treatment methods used to help reduce chronic knee pain, such as:

• Wrap or Brace Your Knee – Wrapping your knee when you know you’ll be walking around, working out, or being active is a good way to keep the joint from getting stiff, but still offering light support. It is best to wrap your knee only when you’re going to be active, unless directed by your physical therapist or another medical professional.
• Consider Your Footwear and Insoles – The type of shoes we wear can have a direct impact on the overall health of our knees. Try putting supportive insoles in your favorite shoes, which may help take some of the pressure off of your knees and offer you some relief.
• Exercise – Contrary to what you may think, resting too much might cause the muscles around your knee to weaken and hurt more. Low impact exercises such as swimming and certain yoga stretches may help strengthen your knee without causing further injuries.