Chronic knee pain is a common complaint for countless men and women. The severity of this condition can range from mild discomfort during strenuous activity to debilitating pain that interferes with your daily life. For many, managing pain on a regular basis becomes as important as eating and sleeping.

Finding effective, long-lasting knee pain relief may depend on your specific condition and health status. Below are some of the more commonly diagnosed causes of chronic knee pain.

Arthritis: Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease in which the protective cartilage surrounding the knee joint slowly wears away. While this condition typically affects older people, it can also occur in younger people that are overweight, as well as those with a genetic predisposition to the disease.
Traditional methods of treatment include cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory pain medications and even a partial or total knee replacement surgery, in severe cases. However, patients searching for natural joint pain relief from knee arthritis have options such as weight loss, physical therapy and alternative treatments like magnetic or light therapy.

Bursitis: A bursa is a sack filled with natural lubricant that sits over the kneecap. Bursitis is a condition in which the area above the kneecap accumulates excess fluid and becomes swollen, inflamed and painful. It is sometimes referred to a "housemaid's knee" because it is common in people who kneel frequently, such as house cleaners, gardeners or carpet layers. The most effective knee pain relief for bursitis is to avoid the aggravating activity, although in some cases the fluid may have to be drained by a doctor.

Injury: Whether it is the result of a slip and fall, a car accident, or related to sports or exercise, injury is perhaps the most common trigger of chronic knee pain. Dislocation of the knee cap, ligament tears, and damage to the cartilage or meniscus can produce agonizing discomfort and even render some people completely immobile.

When it comes to managing pain, many patients turn to prescription painkillers. These chemical compounds may provide short-term knee pain relief but can be hazardous to one's health in the long run. They can bring about a host of unpleasant side effects and become addictive. For natural joint pain relief, patients can turn to holistic alternatives such as massage therapy, therapeutic light treatment, and even the use of magnets.

If you are experiencing any of the above conditions, consult your doctor or health care specialist to determine which course of treatment is best for you.