In an article published in Everyday Health, experts offered natural remedies to combat knee pain for patients with osteoarthritis in addition to conventional treatments. They explained that patients can relieve stress on their knees and keep the joints strong by losing weight and performing regular physical activities—including mini-squats as well as low-impact quad and hamstring stretches. They also suggested that patients try frequent gentle movements, such as stretching, to relieve knee osteoarthritis pain. Further, patients were advised to establish a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables that are high in phytonutrients and vitamins C, D, E, and selenium to help reduce inflammation and maintain a healthy weight. Among other recommendations were that patients:
- Use hot and cold therapy to combat inflammation
- Find an acupuncturist who can tailor treatment to a specific disease stage
- Connect with a licensed physical therapist
- Make an appointment with an occupational therapist to develop goals to improve mobility
- Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga
- Periodically receive a massage to alleviate mental and physical stress
- Make an appointment with a physiotherapist to discuss if transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation may help ease knee pain
- Talk to a physician about using supplements.