Knee pain is common in older people and can make it hard for them to do things they once loved. Everyday things like walking, going up and down stairs, and even sitting down can be hard. Although there isn’t a single best way to deal with knee pain, there are a number of tricks and tips that can help seniors feel better and live a better life, especially with the support of home care and their loved ones. Continue reading to learn more.
Keep Moving
This might sound counterintuitive, but it’s best to keep moving through the pain unless the doctor has said not to. For instance, low-impact exercises like swimming, stationary cycling, and gentle yoga are all activities that can help keep joints mobile and build muscles without putting too much stress on the knees. Plus, regular exercise can also help seniors lose weight, which is very important for easing the stress on your knees.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Speaking of weight, being overweight can make knee pain a lot worse because the extra weight puts more stress on the joints. The home care team can help seniors stay at a healthy weight by assisting them with healthy meal plans.
Wear Supportive Shoes
The shoes that seniors wear can have a big effect on their knee pain. Shoes that support the arch and soften the foot can help keep the knees from hurting. A podiatrist may sometimes suggest custom shoes to give their feet more support.
Mobility Devices Might Also Help
When necessary, seniors can use canes, walkers, or knee braces to help spread their weight out more evenly and put less stress on their knees when they walk or stand. These devices offer support and stability, which can be especially helpful for older people who have knee pain.
Use Hot and Cold Therapy
Knee pain can be eased by using heat and cold. Putting on a warm bandage or taking a warm bath can help loosen up tight muscles. On the other hand, ice packs can reduce swelling and numb the area. The home care team can help seniors assess which type of therapy they need.
Consider Physical Therapy
For older people who have knee pain, physical therapy can be helpful. A physical therapist can make a personalized exercise plan for them, teach them how to move their body correctly and use hands-on techniques to ease pain and improve joint movement.
Consider Over-the-Counter Painkillers
Knee pain can be eased temporarily with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or aspirin. Before taking these medicines, seniors should talk to their doctor to make sure they are safe and right for their situation since some may not be safe for them.
Research Alternative Treatments
Some seniors may be able to ease knee pain with alternative treatments like acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic care.
For adults, knee pain doesn’t have to take them out of the game. By using a mix of these tips and tricks every day, they can better deal with and lessen their knee pain, which will make their general quality of life better. As always, it’s important to talk to a medical professional for personalized advice and help with knee pain management since everyone’s situation is different. In addition, with support from home care and loved ones, seniors can keep living an active and satisfying life.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Aurora, CO please contact the caring staff at Talem Home Care & Placement Services today. Call (720) 789-8529
At Talem Home Care of Broomfield, we provide passionate, understanding, and flexible caregivers in Broomfield, Arvada, Aurora, Boulder, Brighton, Commerce City, Denver, Erie, Firestone, Lafayette, Lakewood, Longmont, Louisville, Northglenn, Sherrelwood, Thornton, Welby, Westminster, Wheat Ridge and surrounding areas in Colorado.
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