Prevent the Onset of Knee Pain

A lot of people tend to ignore the immense stress that knees endure on a daily basis. This way, we hurt our knees unknowingly and then suffer knee pain and discomfort. Therefore take care of the knees from a very early age and this will help you to avoid knee pain or knee surgery in future. The knee joint has great functionality, but it can only bear stress to certain level. As time passes, the knee gets worn and knee pain starts surfacing due to various reasons. Knee surgery becomes the only option. Consult a doctor if the knee pain lasts more than 48 hours as this may be a serious issue. Nevertheless, it is better to take preventive measures to avert the knee pain than to proceed to knee surgery. Remember knee surgery is the last recourse and there are several other means to counter knee problems.

Stretching is a very important exercise that one should to do before onset of exercise as this can prevent you from sustaining any long term knee injury. This can help you to prevent knee injuries and also make your work out routine more comfortable. When you get stiff hamstrings, a lot of pressure is put on knees and this often leads to knee injury. Hence stretching becomes imperative to relax your knee muscles and prevent them from any form of knee injury. Do not overdo it and make it a point to do these exercises under proper guidance as this will allow you to combat knee pain. This way you can avoid knee surgery.

Getting the right pair of shoes is also vital as it can be instrumental in helping you prevent knee pain. If the shoes that you're wearing are not comfortable and are extremely worn, then it's a good idea to discontinue with them. The main function of the shoe is to provide proper cushion and comfort to the leg. If the cushion impact is absent in your shoes, your knees and legs are directly affected and as a result you suffer from knee pain. The knee is the main joint in the leg that facilitates movement, so it becomes essential to take proper care of them. A great way to ensure this is to get a pair of shoes that offers support to your leg when you walk or run. It is advisable to change your shoes after using them for 500 miles of running. All these collective measures will help you prevent knee injuries and consequently you can avoid knee surgery.

Frequently, the cause of the knee injuries has been due to a sudden increase in one's work out pattern. The sudden increase in the running or exercise adds extra strain to legs and knees which may cause injury. Therefore, ensure that you increase your work out regime gradually so that your body is able to adjust. It is recommended to add at most five percent to the running distance to prevent any kind of injury. It's also a good idea to consult a trainer or expert to understand what kind of work out routine you should opt for that does not put strain on your knees and helps you prevent any form of knee injury.

The knee joint plays a major role in our day-to-day life, so it is very important that we take extra care of them. Whether you have knee pain now or not, plan ahead to avoid it by following the right steps as it is a very important joint in the human body.

Arthritis: Easy Solutions for a Common Problem

Arthritis: The 'Universal' Condition

One thing that is heard constantly in the health and fitness field is the complaint of pain and limited motion from arthritis. Clients constantly speak about their diagnosis of arthritis whether it is in the spine, knee, shoulder, or some other joint. The reason this is heard so much is that arthritis is extremely common and occurs in everyone at some point in their lives. In fact, as we age each person will start to have arthritis occurring in various places. To make things even more 'commonplace' there are over 100 different types of arthritis. The most common form is osteoarthritis which is a long-term process of 'wear and tear' in the joints. Common symptoms are as follows:

• Pain in a joint (or multiple joints)


• Swelling of a joint (may or may not be perceptible to the patient)


• Limited range of motion


• Stiffness (especially in the morning)

Obviously, we all have 'wear and tear' that occurs throughout our lifetime. However, the problem we see is that most people consider this diagnosis as a life sentence of pain and limited motion. This makes people cease activity and avoid the area of pain. This results in further problems due to the new compensation patterns that are adapted leading to excess stress in other parts of the body.

The other misconception that people tend to interpret from a diagnosis of arthritis is that it is always a severe condition. This couldn't be further from the truth. Most times arthritis is something that doctors arbitrarily find in and x-ray and is not necessarily the cause of pain. However, since this is their 'diagnosis' they assume that this is in fact the cause of their pain and there is nothing that they can do about it. The real truth is there is many things you can do to improve osteoarthritis. Even more, if you decide to just avoid the area and deal with the pain it typically will progress to more severe arthritis.

So, the question becomes: What can I do about arthritis? If speaking about the most common arthritis, osteoarthritis, there are many things that you can do to improve symptoms. While arthritis cannot be reversed the major goal is to eliminate pain, improve range of motion, avoid harmful compensation patterns, and prevent an increase in arthritis. The following are very helpful in accomplishing these tasks:

Exercise

• Range of motion exercises to encourage movement and flexibility


• Strength training to ensure proper movement patterns and stability


• General aerobic activity to keep the body moving

Therapy

• Soft Tissue work (like Active Release Techniques) to ensure soft tissue is healthy and not causing unnecessary stress to joints


• Chiropractic Adjustments to ensure each joint moves properly and efficiently


• Ice: if joint is swollen


• Nutritional supplements to ensure inflammation is controlled as much as possible internally (especially a quality Omega-3)


• Specific prescription of exercise therapy

Day-to-day activities

• Avoid poor postures or staying in one position for excessive duration


• Healthy eating to prevent inflammation and encourage soft tissue as well as joint health


• Weight loss (if applicable)


• Adequate sleep, including utilizing an efficient mattress and pillow to reduce muscular and joint stress

Many of these things can be done immediately to start reducing the symptoms and progression of arthritis. Realize that arthritis is a very general term and the scale of severity is very widespread. However, knowing that arthritis is present should be an indication that action must be taken rather than a foregone conclusion that pain and loss of motion is now 'a part of life'.

For more information on how we may be able to help with your arthritis pain or limitations schedule an appointment with one of our health professionals. Let us guide you towards a healthy and pain-free lifestyle as well as one that will give you the best possible longevity!

Runner's Knee Pain - Cause, Symptoms and Prevention

Dammed if you do, dammed if you don't.

Runner's knee otherwise known as chondromalacia/patelloformal pain is a condition that occurs when the cartilage found on the under surface of the knee cap known as the patella begins to crack and slowly wears away resulting in inflammation and pain. This layer of cartilage reduces friction between the knee cap and the knee joint, however as this layer of cartilage degrades the under surface of the knee cap is able to rub against the knee joint causing intense pain. Unlike most chronic knee problems that tends to affect the elderly runner's knee predominately affects young athletic individuals, and more so women than men, reasons for which are not clear.

The most common cause of runner's knee are weak or fatigued quadriceps muscles and a tight Illiotibial band, yes these terms sound foreign to me too but there is always Wikipedia. Quadriceps are extensors of the knee joint that assist in the proper tracking of the knee cap, The kneecaps need to move up and down in a smooth motion to insure a balanced running stride. When the muscles in the legs and feet are not in balance then the knees can go off track causing the cartridge to grind away on the kneecap. Pronation of the feet inwards on impact during running can also lead to runner's knee. Worn out running shoes and applying too much tension on the knees are also contributing factors. Runner's knee will become worse if one does not take a break from running after being diagnosed.

Since we are not blessed with x-ray vision a way of diagnosing runner's knee is by looking for the distinct symptoms. Individuals ailing from runner's knee tend to experience pain beneath or on the sides of the knee cap, also there is a grinding or cracking sound when the knee is flexed resulting from the under surface of the kneecap rubbing against the knee joint. Other symptoms include pain after running uphill and swelling at the knee.

Unlike that of arthritis the degeneration caused from runner's knee can be reversed. Treatment of runner's knee is dependent on age, gender, and medical history; however the first and most obvious treatment of runner's knee would be to stop running, not permanently just long enough to give your knee time to recover. Other household treatments include s:

• Applying ice to shin area

• Strengthen quadriceps muscles through various exercises such as squatting

• Avoid lifting weights as this increases tension on the knees and will only worsen the condition

• Keep legs elevated as much as possible and also try sleeping with a pillow between legs

• The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication can also help to reduce the pain and swelling

If symptoms persist then you should consult your physician as surgery might be required.

As is always the case prevention is better than cure. Proper stretching and warming up before physical activity and cooling down afterwards can reduce one's risk of getting runner's knee. Other preventative practices includes, avoiding running downhill and on rugged uneven surfaces, also when undertaking a new training programme do so in gradual progressive steps.

How To Get Rid Of Pain In The Knee - 6 Simple Ways To Stop Pain Naturally

Want to know how to get rid of pain in the knee? This might be one of the most widespread causes of grievances of the general population. Physicians report that as the society advances, the physical stability of people comes to a greater risk. Today's society also has an increasing number of knee problems. Different kinds of stipulations, symptoms, and ailments can be the grounds for knee ache. Involvement of habitual runners or those who are involved in the high impact sports like tennis, basketball and football, have a greater likeliness of acquiring knee pain.

This ailment can be addressed through a variety of resources available in today's market. But it is essential to address the root of the pain, to prevent it from returning. This is where natural or homeopathic remedies come in.

5 Simple Remedies On How To Get Rid Of Pain In The Knee Naturally

1. CELERY:

Celery is the stalk of the plant Apium Graveolens. Its use in pills in relieving pain is widespread. It was first used as early as 30 A.D. Celery is very known to treat gout as well as swollen joints. The method of using Celery can different according to different sources. But the best is known to be as a tincture. This means Celery should be used as a mixture of infused alcohol. For this many sources suggest Vodka to be the best. This tincture works as a decoction.

2. BASIL

Basil is a culinary herb called Ocimum Basilicum. This herb is originally from India. Its properties as an antioxidant, antiviral, and an antimicrobial are well known. Lesser known is its use to cure knee ache. Essential oils from this herb have high medicinal value. This oil can be effectively used to treat joint aches. Care should be taken so as to not intake a large amount as this can be harmful.

3. GINGER

A very common household commodity, Ginger is a rhizome of the plant Gingiber Officiniale. In spite of the fact that studies of its medicinal properties in knee pain have been inconsistent, Ginger has been claimed to decrease joint pains and arthritis. It provides effective relief to general joint stiffness and the pain arising from any degenerative diseases of joints. Method of application includes using it in a bath and also as a hot compress. Both applications provide liberation from pain.

4. MUSTARD

Mustard is a popular condiment which is prepared from the seeds of a plant which goes by the same name. The medicinal assets of this essential commodity are massive. But for the general knee ache it is majorly used as a topical paste rubbed in the area. This is also used in the bath.

5. LEMON JUICE

Very few are aware of the property of lemon juice to cure knee pain. Studies show ingestion of lemon juice effectively reduces swelling and thus helps to reduce joint aches.

The Search For Natural Ingredients

Knee joint pains are very common in today's advancing community and natural herbs or homeopathic medicines might not be easily available in this modern society. Today's families are so busy in the office and household work, that searching for natural herbs and remedies for knee pain is a herculean task in itself. This creates an additional problem.

6. MIX OF NATURAL INGREDIENTS

Studies conducted by a Health Institute discovered that a spot-application cream made from natural ingredients like Belladonna, Ignatia, Lachesis Mutus, Naja, etc, is proven to provide instant relief from knee pains and is a totally hassle-free application. After numerous tests, the results obtained were amazing. This product provides a 100% cure from knee injuries with immediate results and this is all done with zero side-effects.

The Final Relief

Knee pain can be very easily cured at home without going through painful experiences and side effects using other man-made medicines. Awareness about the above natural remedies on how to get rid of pain in the knee will drastically help reduce or eliminate this common syndrome.

The ointment developed by the Institute, has such fast and visible results that it has gained a lot of popularity in a short span of time. Finally, we have a remedy that provides us with all the advantages of many natural remedies. This all-in-one ointment is a breakthrough in the field of joint pains and finally answers the age old question of how to get rid of pain in the knee, that has so helplessly been echoed by victims since time immemorial!

Common Auto Accident Injuries - Knee Injuries

Over the last decade, we have seen innovative car safety features take great strides in protecting people in auto accidents. Unfortunately, protective devices such as airbags and seat belts are unable to fully protect against lower body injury. Oftentimes, people assume that car accident injuries only affect the upper body, but I have seen some very painful and expensive injuries result in the lower body.

One of the most vulnerable lower-body parts in a serious auto accident are the knees. Not only is the knee rather fragile, but its proximity to the steering wheel, door and dashboard make it susceptible to serious injury. The knee is more of a general term for the ligaments and bones that make up the connection between the thigh (femur) and lower leg (tibia and fibula). The makeup of the knee allows for great mobility, but also accounts for the number of injuries that occur in that part of the body. Car accidents are amongst the most common causes of knee injuries because the force that is created in a high speed collision can do serious damage to the cartilage and bones that create the joint. As is the case with most car accident injuries, the injury becomes more serious when the driver tenses up before impact. When this happens, the bones, tendons and ligaments are forced to deal with all the pressure from the accident rather than allowing your muscles to take the shock.

The majority of knee injuries affect the ligaments in the knee. These are the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), MCL (medial collateral ligament), and PCL (posterior cruciate ligament). The most commonly injured part of the knee is the ACL, which is hurt in 70% of all knee injuries. Car accidents can cause damage to the ACL by forcing the knee to twist in an unnatural way, or by forceful contact with the inside of the car. The PCL is usually injured in head on collisions when the knee makes hard contact with the dashboard. ACL, PCL and MCL injuries can vary from a small tear, to a complete tear and rupture. Each of these injuries has unique symptoms and may require different treatment.

An ACL tear can be diagnosed in a number of ways. Pain and swelling are immediate and very noticeable. Various stress tests or an MRI on the knee can confirm the extent of the injury. Not every knee injury will require surgery, but it is usually the best option for ligament tears. This surgery is called an ACL reconstruction, because it is actually reconstructed using another ligament or tendon. This surgery is generally very successful, and rehab can help prevent the ligament continue to be unstable in the future.

If you have suffered a serious knee injury in an auto accident, you may need an experienced car accident lawyer to help you recover the money you deserve. Insurance companies make record profits by lowering and denying claims, but a personal injury attorney can level the playing field on your behalf.

Amega Wand - How Does it Work?

The Amega Wand is the being attributed with some quite remarkable results in people's health, and this article will discuss what the wand is, how it works, and whether these testimonials are for real.

The Amega wand is manufactured by Amega Global using their proprietary Amized Fusion technology. This technology infuses Amega's zero point energy products such as the wand, pendant and skincare.

Zero Point Energy:

So let's take a brief look at what zero point energy is supposed to be. Zero Point Energy is said to be the sea of energy that pervades all space. Apparently Einstein discovered it in 1917 but thought it was a vacuum of empty space, ie nothing. Now, scientists are saying this zero point filed is not empty but contains vibrant energy, and Amega claim to have harnessed this power into their products.

When this energy condenses it forms matter, eg the human body, but over time, age and the environment take their toll and the bio energetic filed around the body weakens. This is where Amega say their products can help.

The Amega Wand:

The Amega wand is a metal device that looks like a fountain pen, but there is no opening. It is used by moving it in circles around the area of pain on the body, or generally around the body to energise it. This is done for up to 5-10 minutes per 'treatment'.

You may well think this sounds too simple to take away chronic pain and illness, but the testimonials you can find of Amega enthusiasts state that the wand and pendant have helped with conditions including: a cut finger, gout, headaches, migraines, RSI, tennis elbow, shoulder, knee and neck pains, hand pains, chronic cramps in feet, growths on the body, teeth and gum inflammation, arthritis in knee, hip problem, pet dog with epilepsy (seizure less and shorter), swollen and infected foot, better sleep, face looks younger, type 2 diabetes and associated foot numbness gone, and more. Such testimonials seem also to be growing in numbers by the day.

But Amega are very cautious and do not claim that the wand cures or treats any condition, but that rather it is simply a catalyst that enables the body to heal itself by the body cells remembering their homeostatis condition where there is no pain.

Benefits of the Amwand:

The Amwand is said to have other benefits too, as follows:

• Easy to use
• It's durable - no batteries needed
• It's water-proof
• It energizes food and drinks as well as the body, and brings out the nutrients
• Makes plants healthier
• Engenders greater vitality
• Neutralizes harmful waves and radiation in the environment
• Energizes body creams and skin care
• Stimulates bodily functions and strengthens immunity...

The list goes on.

In the end however all of this is theory, and Amega themselves say their products cannot be explained, only experienced. So as with everything, the proof is the eating, or in this case, wanding.

Preparing For Your First Knee Replacement

Having a knee replacement takes not only certain physical preparation but mental preparation as well. Before having the surgery it is important to have your home laid out for simplicity and easy navigation.

Find a chair that you will be spending a majority of your time in when you arrive home. preferably, its a recliner as you do not want to have your leg in a dependent position where gravity affects the pooling of the blood. Once your chair is designated be sure its of proper height and does not rock. Building a platform prior to surgery to place under the chair is an idea that many have used in the past with great success to raise its height for easier transfers.

Hopefully you have been given an exercise handout prior to surgery to begin preparing your body for the surgery. Completing basic exercises to the affected limb or limbs will greatly assist you in the post-surgical recovery as its known that muscle has memory, and will return to normal function and strength much sooner if exercised in the same manner prior to surgery. The time varies, but 3-5 weeks out should have you prepared and ready following a written exercise program.

Please be sure to have a quality cold pack or other cooling system ready when you get home. Your knee will recover and respond much faster and pain relief will be kept to a minimum with an effective cold pack. Check your local drugstore or better yet a local medical supply will have a larger selection. I see many patients trying to ice down a knee with a small bag of peas and carrots this is something I do not recommend, your knee will need better coverage than that.

Have your meals prepared or have someone that will be staying with you for the first 10 days to 2 weeks home, as the last thing you want to do is stand on your surgical leg in the kitchen preparing meals, believe me it will only take one episode of meal preparation to understand the importance of having food prepared or someone assisting you with it.

Make sure you bring home your compression stockings that are issued at the hospital, many leave them and find they would have come in handy at home. The stockings are to curb edema and to prevent DVT. Take your pain medication as prescribed as well. Many try to get off the pain medication too soon only to be very uncomfortable you will need the pain medication anywhere from 4-6 weeks out from surgery.

And most of all, complete the exercises that have been prescribed by your therapist. your final outcome will be only as good as the time you put into the exercise program. You will see a big change in your overall condition within 6 weeks after surgery if not sooner remember, everyone is different and what your neighbor did and experienced down the street will be different from your experience.