Knee and other joint pain often comes from wear and tear (osteoarthritis), old injuries or inflammation. It can make walking, climbing stairs and sleeping difficult.
First steps
- Keep a healthy weight to reduce the load on the knees
- Do gentle strengthening and stretching exercises as advised
- Use heat or cold packs and comfortable footwear
- Take pain medicines only as your doctor advises
When more help is needed
If pain continues, your specialist may suggest targeted options such as joint or nerve injections to reduce pain and help you move and exercise more comfortably. The choice depends on your examination and scans, and your doctor will explain the benefits and possible risks before any procedure.
See a doctor if a joint becomes suddenly red, hot and very painful, or if pain follows an injury.
This article is general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Please see a doctor for advice about your own health.
