Relieving Knee Pain With Alternative Medicine

Knee pain can be persistent and debilitating, and often people move away from traditional medicine, looking instead for natural, alternative cures. The following will give you some examples of where to start; however it is best to at least consult your doctor or physical therapist about any alternative therapies you are considering.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture may help relive your knee pain, causing only minor discomfort at worst. This ancient technique has been shown to be effective at relieving pain, so it is a good option even if you do fancy the thought of needles. Acupuncture needles are thinner than medical needles, so the "pinch" of puncture is far less. When you look for an acupuncture office, look for a clean facility, a knowledgeable acupuncturist, and favorable reviews or personal recommendations. Be sure that the needles used are pre-sterilized in packs and properly disposed of after use.

Massage

Massage can be a great way to relieve pain and pressure on your knee joints, particularly if the pain is caused wholly or in part by tight muscles. A professional massage targeted at the painful locations can have the best effect, but you can get some relief on your own at home with self-massage. With one hand above your knee on your leg and one below, massage gently upward with your top hand. Use your palm to press the muscles into the bone, then lift them up with a gentle pinching motion. If this technique isn't adequate, use your fingertips to knead deeply in a circle around the knee.

Emu Oil

Emu oil is not an option for vegans because it is derived from emu fat; however, it is purported to have great restorative properties, and can relieve even extreme arthritis pain with regular use. Use emu oil poured into your hand to relieve knee pain by rubbing it gently into the affected area daily. You can also use the oil to conduct your knee massage, possibly increasing the effectiveness of both techniques. Emu oil boosts blood flow to promote healing, and also helps reduce inflammation to give you some relief from even chronic knee pain. To find out where to purchase emu oil, consult the "Resources" section.