Whether you’re bending down to play with the kids or jumping for that slam dunk, knee pain can be frustrating. Luckily, there are ways to find chronic pain relief. Here are a few tips to get a head-start on your healing journey. 

A Guide to Chronic Pain Relief for Your Knees

1. Use Proper Form

Although exercise is crucial to your physical health, the wrong postures could harm the knees in the long run. Whether you’re doing aerobics or lifting weights, pay attention to your form in a squat position. To prevent undue strain on the joints, the knees should hover directly over your toes—not to the right or left. Also, use the abdominal muscles, hamstrings and glutes to support your upper body; this will minimize the stress on your knees.

2. Apply Ice When in Pain

If you’ve just returned from a hike or a few hours at an outdoor concert, your knees might be sending strong signals through your nervous system. Instead of ignoring the pain or simply taking pain relievers, sit down, elevate your legs and place an ice pack on each knee. The cold temperature will reduce inflammation, boosting the body’s natural healing processes.

3. Shed the Extra Weight

When you stand up and walk around, the knees already have the arduous task of bending and straightening while supporting the weight of the upper two-thirds of the body. If you add to their burden by carrying a heavy backpack, purse or briefcase, you’re increasing the risk of knee pain. Switch to a rolling suitcase or backpack, or clean out your bags at the end of every week—you’ll be surprised by how much weight those pens, brochures and other random objects add to the load.

If you’re searching for chronic pain relief for achy joints, turn to iSpine Pain Physicians in the Twin Cities, MN, area. Whether you’re dealing with discomfort in your knees, hips or back, they offer care in Maple Grove, Coon Rapids, Chaska, Shakopee, Sartell and Delano. Find the relief you need to get back to your favorite activities. To learn more about these specialists, visit the website. Call (763) 201-8191 to schedule an appointment at their Delano location.