I have osteoarthritis in my knees...any helpful hints to ease the pain and aching...especially after work...?

I have osteoarthritis in my knees....they are killing me after a hard day on my feet at work....any helpful tips or things to do to help east the pain of this type of arthritis???

I have RA and my knees hurt the worst. I also stand all day, and finally I have come up with a method that works for me. First, I wear high quality knee braces while I am working. They seem to give me support which helps. When I get home, I place a small dab of Tiger Balm on my knees and alternate heat and ice. I went to Walgreens and purchased the sock-type heating "tube". It is called Bed Buddy, or something like that. It was only 9.99. It is white and has 2 blue handles- the people at Walgreens should be able to help you find it. I know with my RA, I couldn't make one on my own. Also, this has soothing aromas like eucalyptus.

I start out with the heat, then move on the the ice pack. Really, i use a frozen bag of English peas because they can mold to my knee. Its kinds intense at first, but after the first minute, it goes away. I usually do this process for 20 minutes per knee. It really does help me, and I hope it helps you.

My boyfriend has the same thing and he says to try a long hot shower and to elevate them with a pillow when you go to bed. He has it severely and I guess he would know, lol. Also try physiotherapy, they can help with pain management.
My boyfriend
Lifestyle changes may delay or limit osteoarthritis symptoms.

Weight loss: One study suggested that, for women, weight loss may reduce the risk for osteoarthritis in the knee.

Exercise: Regular exercise may help to strengthen the muscles and potentially stimulate cartilage growth. Avoid high-impact sports. The following types of exercise are recommended: range of motion, strengthening, and aerobic.

Diet: Antioxidant vitamins C and E may provide some protection. Vitamin D and calcium are recommended for strong bones. The recommended daily dose of calcium is 1000-1200 mg. The current guideline for vitamin D is 400 IU per day. Avoid more than 1200 IU of vitamin D per day.

Heat: Hot soaks and warm wax (paraffin) application may relieve pain.

Orthoses: These assistive devices are used to improve function of moveable parts of the body or to support, align, prevent, or correct deformities. Splints or braces help with joint alignment and weight redistribution. Other examples include walkers, crutches or canes, and orthopedic footwear.

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the first drug recommended for osteoarthritis.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used for arthritis pain. These include aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil), naproxen (Aleve), and ketoprofen (Orudis).

Newer OTC preparations include chondroitin and glucosamine sulfate, which are natural substances found in the joint fluid. Chondroitin is thought to promote an increase in the making of the building blocks of cartilage (collagen and proteoglycans) as well as having an anti-inflammatory effect. Glucosamine may also stimulate production of the building blocks of cartilage as well as being an anti-inflammation agent. Glucosamine was found to increase blood sugar in animal studies, so people with diabetes should consult their doctor first. A recent study showed that glucosamine slowed progression of osteoarthritis in the knee.

Arthritis self-help course: The Arthritis Foundation offers an educational program on the causes and treatment of arthritis. Exercise, nutrition, relaxation, and pain management programs are covered as well as ways to communicate with your doctor. Completion of the program reduced pain by 20% and doctor visits by 40%.
http://www.emedicinehealth.com/osteoarth...

(Student RN)
Been to see arthritis specialist or orthopedic doctor? All those other suggestions are good, but sometimes you really need the DOCTOR. Iv'e been in your place. Medications, OTC may help, but there are also prescription meds that are excellent. One of the oldest, but best is Voltaren (diclofenac). Also, he may want x-rays to check for cartilage damage...and these would help him know how advanced the arthritis is. Self treatment can only help so much, sometimes the orthopedist can be your best friend!
R.N. and arthritis pt.