Best Over The Counter Medicine For Knee Pain
Knee pain is a common ailment, affecting millions of people of all ages. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, arthritis, and overuse. The good news is that there are many over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can help relieve knee pain. In this article, we will discuss the best OTC medicines for knee pain and how they work.
1. Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is a pain reliever that can be found in many OTC medications such as Tylenol. It works by reducing pain and fever in the body. Acetaminophen is a good option for those who cannot take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen due to allergies or other health conditions.
However, acetaminophen does not reduce inflammation, so it may not be the best choice for those with knee pain caused by arthritis.
2. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are a group of drugs that include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. They work by reducing inflammation and pain in the body. NSAIDs are a good option for those with knee pain caused by arthritis or injury. However, they can cause side effects such as stomach upset, ulcers, and bleeding.
If you are taking NSAIDs, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and not to take them for an extended period of time without consulting a healthcare professional.
3. Topical pain relievers
Topical pain relievers are creams, gels, or patches that are applied directly to the skin over the affected area. They work by blocking pain signals to the brain. Topical pain relievers are a good option for those with knee pain caused by arthritis or injury. They can be applied directly to the knee and have fewer side effects than oral medications.
However, topical pain relievers may not be as effective as oral medications for severe knee pain.
4. Capsaicin cream
Capsaicin cream is a topical pain reliever that is derived from chili peppers. It works by blocking pain signals to the brain. Capsaicin cream is a good option for those with knee pain caused by arthritis or injury.
However, it can cause a burning or stinging sensation on the skin, so it should be used with caution. It is important to wash your hands after applying capsaicin cream and to avoid touching your eyes or other sensitive areas.
5. Glucosamine and chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin are supplements that are often used to treat knee pain caused by arthritis. They work by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of cartilage in the joints.
While there is some evidence to suggest that glucosamine and chondroitin may be effective for reducing knee pain, more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness. It is important to talk to a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
Conclusion
There are many OTC medications that can help relieve knee pain, including acetaminophen, NSAIDs, topical pain relievers, capsaicin cream, and glucosamine and chondroitin. It is important to choose the medication that is best for your specific type of knee pain and to follow the recommended dosage.
If your knee pain persists or is severe, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.