We have been walking around on our legs our whole lives, so it is not unusual that many of us experience some kind of knee pain. Of course, if your knee pain is severe, chronic, and/or limits you in your daily living you should check in with your doctor, but if your knee pain is more a matter of you feeling stiff and achy, there are some very simple things you can do at home to help alleviate your discomfort.
First, stretch daily. Stretch your legs after you have been moving around for a while in the morning, after exercise, and again at the end of your day before you go to sleep. (check out this site for stretching examples: http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/flexibilityexercises/ss/Legstretches.htm).
Second, ice your knees for 10-20 minutes each day (especially after exercise) to decrease any inflammation you may have.
Third, strengthen the muscles in your legs, especially those around your knees. Don't neglect your inner and outer thighs! (check out this site for some great exercise you can do at home: ttp://health.howstuffworks.com/leg-exercises.htm).
Finally, try not to stay in the same position for very long. If you are seated, stand up every 10-20 minutes; if you are standing in line, shift your weight from side to side and do not keep your knees in a locked position.
Be Pain Free...Live Well!!!
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