Here is what helped me and some other suggestions I have come across in my research:

• Ibuprofen for pain and swelling, works a little better than a Acetaminophen

  • Because I am not fond of prescription pain medications, though I have needed them a few time throughout the years.

  • Have some Tums close (Since repeated Ibuprofen use may irritate on your stomach)

• Light exercise

  • Studies have shown that some non-impact exercise relieves stiffness and reduces swelling.  Talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program and do not over exert your joints.

• Eat a well balanced diet

  • Follow a heart healthy diet with plenty of fiber.  Fiber makes you feel fuller to keep your weight under control to reduce extra stress on your joints and Nutritionist also suggest that the fiber absorbs inflammatory toxins and hormones that aggravate arthritis and carries them out of the body.

• Try Capsaicin Cream

  • Extracted from hot peppers, the cream is available as an over the counter topical cream.  Rubbing it on your joints suppresses the nerves from sending pain impulses, providing arthritis relief.

• Use good posture. 

  • Good posture distributes the weight load evenly across the joint instead of unevenly pinching or leaning on the joint causing more pain.

• Keep positive and upbeat

  • Studies have shown that the more positive and cheerful you are the less pain you feel.  However, the more down or depressed you are, your pain is increased.  Get outside, participate in positive activities and keep up a positive mood.  If you are in a 'rut' or find yourself constantly depressed over your aches and pains, you may want to talk to your doctor about some depression medication.

• Though there is no conclusive scientific proof, many people have reported relief with herbal supplements:

  • Shark Cartilage tablets - made from ground up shark cartilage

  • MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) - A sulfur containing compound

  • Ginger - Fresh or capsules

  •   Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate - A lot of internet buzz

• Ice packs that surround the whole knee

  • If one is not available, frozen vegetable with a towel around the bag will do just fine

• Knee Brace

• Propping the knee up to let it rest

  • This should be done periodically throughout the day. Especially when there is an event that would require standing for quite some time

• Lower the use of high heels and dressier shoes (They will irritate the knee more)

***  Keep in mind NOT to use a hot towel (The heat makes the blood flow more and the swelling will double in size)

Whatever method you use to help control you arthritis pain, make sure it has your doctor's approval.  We will be updating the Pain Relief page often as good suggestions are presented in our forum.