How To Treat Gout Knee Pain

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June 3, 2011

The knee is a large, weight-bearing joint, but its motion is much more limited than that of most other joints. It will straighten to make the leg a stable support, and it will bend to more than a right angle – to approximately 120 degrees. However, it can not move in any other direction. The limited motion of the knee gives it great strength, but it is not made to take side stresses.

The knee must be stable and it must be able to extend fully to a straight leg. If it cannot extend fully the muscles must support the body all the time and strain is continuous. Normally our knee locks in the straight position which allows us to relax . Horses are able to sleep standing up because they can rest on their knees. If the knees wobble from side to side there is too much stress on the side ligaments, and the condition may eventually worsen.

There are two cartilage compartments in the knee, the outer and the inner. If the cartilage is worn evenly the leg can bow out or bow in, If you are overweight you tend to be far more likely to have knee problems.

If the knee is unstable and wobbles or if it cannot be straightened out, you need to see the physician . Similarly, you need a physician if there is a possibility of infection or gout . Finally, if there is pain or swelling in the calf below the sore knee, you may have a blood clot, but more likely you have a “Baker cyst,” you may need the doctor .

If possible try not to do things that aggravate the pain. An elastic bandage may help if there has been a recent injury. Using a cane may help.

Do not use a pillow under the knee at night or at any other time, as this can make the knee stiffen so that it cannot be straightened out.

Exercises should be started slowly and if possible performed several times a day. Swimming can be good because there is no weight-bearing requirement. When you start, pay close attention to flexing and straightening the leg. Having a friend help you move your leg through these motions might be more comfortable than doing it yourself at first. But work at getting it straight and keeping it straight. Next begin isometric exercises. Tense the muscles in your upper leg, front and back, at the same time, so that you are exerting force but your leg is not moving. Do this for two seconds, then rest two seconds. Do ten repetitions three times a day. Then begin gentle active exercises. A bicycle in a low gear is a good place to start . Stationary bicycles are fine . Walking is probably the best overall exercise, and distances should be gradually increased. Avoid exercises or activities that stimulate deep knee bends, as they place too much stress on the knee.

Your painful knee might be caused by too little medication; therefore, be sure you are taking any prescribed medication as directed.

You can find more information about gout at How To Treat Gout.