Do’s And Don’ts Of Managing Knee Osteoarthritis (OA)

Do you have knee osteoarthritis, or ‘OA’?

If you do, you know how challenging it can be to maintain a healthy level of activity.

Here’s a list of knee OA Do’s and Don’ts to help you enjoy the activities you love while minimizing pain.

DO consider using a medical device to alleviate pain

Proper footwear and orthotics will improve your foot and lower leg alignment and can reduce pressure and friction on the arthritic portions of your knee.

DO incorporate stretching and strengthening into your workout routine

Strengthening programs can provide extra support by helping strengthen the muscles around the knee joint.

DO maintain a healthy weight

To reduce the load on your knees, maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise while being monitored by your physician.

DO take care of the joint above and below your knee

Your foot, ankle and hip function play a significant role in the development and discomfort of knee osteoarthritis.

DON’T rule out alternative therapies

By trying new forms of therapy, you can reduce the need for pain medications which can help you maintain a positive outlook on your path to recovery.

DON’T ignore worsening or changing symptoms

If your knee pain is getting worse, or you are experiencing pain in another area of your body, speak with your doctor as soon as you can.

DO build a support team around you

This may include a general physician, a rheumatologist, a pedorthist, a physiotherapist, a nurse practitioner, a naturopathic doctor, a psychologist, a massage therapist, or a kinesiologist.

Learn More

There are many non-surgical and non-medicinal options to help manage pain
and improving joint function with OA.