“Are there any anti-inflammatory medicines I can take after running?”
I have been noticing that my knees swell up after I run. Is there any anti-inflammatory medication that can bring down this swelling?
10 Answers
I would recommend you take anti-inflammatory prior to your running. Over the counter - Advil or Aleve - about 30 minutes prior to running. It can be repeated after running. If the swelling persists, consult your local orthopedic surgeon.
Phillip H. Omohundro, MD, MBA
Phillip H. Omohundro, MD, MBA
The swelling is usually a sign there is damage in the knee. Usually, either a meniscal tear or (early) arthritis. Consider getting your hips evaluated (osteopathic doc) to make sure you aren’t uneven, causing an uneven wear pattern. If you are adamant about taking an anti-inflammatory, naproxen is better than ibuprofen, but I personally prefer turmeric or curcumin, the ultimate natural & safe anti-inflammatory.
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories work, BUT make sure to protect your GI tract as ulcers can occur with too much meds. So, use in moderation to protect your stomach and kidneys.
Usual for inflammation would be Aleve or Advil. Instructions on bottle. If doesn’t help see specialist to determine diagnosis
If your knees are swelling, you should schedule an appointment with a local sports medicine physician to assess why they are swelling. Ice and any of the over the counter anti-inflammatory pills (like Aleve or Advil) can bring down the swelling typically. I recommend the www.incrediwear.com knee sleeve to my patients.
Knee swelling after exercise is not normal. Joint swelling means that there is some abnormality that is underlying the swelling. My advice is to see someone such as an orthopedic surgeon or sports medicine specialist to try to diagnose the underlying problems. If there is no significant mechanical problem such as a torn meniscus or a loose body then over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatorys (NSAID) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can be taken prior to exercise to try to control the swelling.
Try Ice first, works great as a local deterrent of inflammation and swelling. Stretching, proper shoe wear (and orthotics), and strong gluts can reduce knee pain. Ibuprofen is my NSAID of choice.
Hello,
With knee swelling, you need to find a good orthopedic surgeon you can trust to evaluate you. After a complete history, physical exam, and often imaging studies, the surgeon can detail a life plan best for you for your knees and overall health and treatment goals you design together.
Dr. Duncan, MD
With knee swelling, you need to find a good orthopedic surgeon you can trust to evaluate you. After a complete history, physical exam, and often imaging studies, the surgeon can detail a life plan best for you for your knees and overall health and treatment goals you design together.
Dr. Duncan, MD
There are many over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications you may take if you have no medical contraindications to those medicines; but, you may need to have your knees evaluated as to why there is swelling....could be arthritis, or cartilage tears. Ice and compression will also reduce swelling and inflammation.
Yes but I would try a mixed approach with Pre-planning with Appropriate Pre-game/Run meal with appropriate meal 3-4 hours PRIOR and use anti-inflammatory before workout/Race followed by 1000 mg of Tylenol every 2 hours for Maximum 24 hr dose equal to 3000mg per Day!
Good luck
Good luck
