Home care for knee pain due to
arthritis or a minor injury includes:
- Avoid activities that cause pain.
- Apply a cold compress:
- Wrap ice in a moist hand towel. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
- Apply for 20-30 minutes, every 1-2 hours, for the first few days.
- Apply warm compresses:
- Apply for 20-30 minutes, every 4 hours, after 2 days
- Rest the knee:
- Use a walker.
- Use crutches.
- Elevate your knee:
- Above your heart if possible.
- Apply an elastic wrap to the knee.
- Re-wrap the joint every 6 hours.
- Acetaminophen for pain
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain
- Take prescribed medications as directed.
