Pain, swelling & stiffness in the joints indicate osteoarthritis. In this situation the cartilage cushioning at the ends of your bones, starts to wear away. This is usually associated with ageing, obesity or because of the increased strain on your joints. Previous injuries, repetitive activity or infrequent use of a joint may also contribute to the problem.

Knee pain is the most common type of joint pain. Its symptoms include stiffness, swelling, mild inflammation or a crackling sensation in the joints.

You can avoid knee pain by…

-          Keep weight under control.

-          Take regular exercise, both for fitness and to strengthen joints.

-          Take frequent breaks during activities that are repetitive.

Relief from knee pain can be sought by…

-          Resting your joints if they are swollen or inflamed.

-          A straight back chair with high arms will make it easier to get up when your joints are stiff or aching

-          Wearing comfortable, well cushioned shoes.

-          While seated, make sure u put a stool below your feet so that knees are higher than your hips.

-          Use a topical pain relieving gel or spray for effective relief.

Exercises for knee joints that will alleviate the pain…

-          Ankle pumps- lie on your back and rotate your foot clockwise and then anticlockwise. Repeat this 10 times.

-          Heel slides- lie on your back. Slowly bend and straighten the knee. Repeat 10 times.

-          Stand straight with your knees straight and move only your knees up and down. Like locking and unlocking your knee; this is also found to be very beneficial.