FOUR FIXES FOR KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS

1 Avoid overload

Being overweight and doing heavy work can quadruple the strain on knees, increasing pain and damage. Lose weight if need be, and ask about a change of duties.

2 Walk regularly

Joints need regular exercise to maintain normal protection, and ease pain and stiffness. Walking poles can reduce the strain on knees and hips by 20% or more.

3 practise exercises

Strengthening muscles, tendons, ligaments and balance can help stabilise your knees. Seek advice from a physio or visit arthritisresearchuk. org for information.

4 Use heat and ice

A heat or ice pack, over-the-counter painkillers or rubbing gels can help (ask your pharmacist). Or ask your GP about stronger drugs or joint injections.