stiff knees

[flipnflap]

A family friend who can't be bothered to register with AB has asked me to ask this: he's in his late 40s and has recently started to get stiffness in his knees which hampers his tennis-playing. He takes Cod Liver Oil capsules every day but is there anything else he should take? And what kind of specialist should he see - a physio, chiropractor, or what? Any suggestions?

[Eve]

Could be part of ageing, maybe he needs to warm up more or take it easier.

A good EPA supplement and magnesium are good for keeping joints supple and well hydrated.

Worth a trip to the doctor if it is causing problems in case it's the onset of arthritis.

An osteopath may be able to help with exercises and general advice and such or a good sports masseur but make sure he's not ignoring what could be condition.

[carlton23]

Algesal Cream from the GP works for my knee joints.

[Androcles]

Agree with Jenna - it is better to see the doctor and get a diagnosis of the problem and get a treatment programme, rather than start guessing.

I had problems with my knees, which a good physio and the doctor analysed and identified the actual problem - strained ligaments and more importantly as the knee is a complex joint, which ones! Lucky - with others it could be arthritis, so you need to know.

[tamborine]

Wear knee supports - ease up on the tennis & diet if overweight.

His knees cant take the strain!

[Beauj]

Bottom line darlin? He is doing all the right things! But He needs to speak with His GP NOW - because it could be 3 years befor He gets to see the right person!

[Whoever]

We're not medics on here. Tell him to see his GP or book an appointment with a physio. Sadly joint pain and stiffness is often an early sign of arthritis and many people, whether active or not, suffer this as part of the ageing process. Cod Liver Oil is said to be helpful. Also, if he's overweight, losing a few pounds might result in less strain on his joints and ligaments but a GP should always be the first port of call.