Javascript is not enabled.

Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again.

CLOSE
Search

Common Sense Solutions To The Everyday Aches And Pains That Come With Age

How to manage back and knee pain.

You’ve gained wisdom and confidence, and you’re more comfortable than ever in your own skin. But over the last few years, you may also have started to experience two common body ailments – back pain and knee pain. This doesn’t have to get in the way of the active life you love. Here’s what you need to know to keep these common everyday aches and pains from slowing you down.

Back Pain

Back pain has a lot of causes, including muscle or ligament strain, long hours at your desk, the flare-up of old injuries, and chronic conditions like arthritis. A few simple steps can help keep minor back pain in check.

Get Moving – Gentle exercise can help strengthen the muscles that support your back. Be sure to keep it light. Skip the high-intensity workouts and opt instead for walking, hiking, or yoga.

  • Stretch It Out – Taking a few minutes every day to stretch can help ease the tension in your back. Moves that may help include knee-to-chest stretches, cat-cow stretches, a seated rotational stretch, and shoulder blade squeezes.

  • Use Hot and Cold Therapy – When you’re experiencing back pain, applying a cold pack can reduce inflammation and numb pain. A hot pack can relax tense muscles and improve blood flow.

    Knee Pain

    Knee pain can be caused by an injury, such as a ruptured ligament, torn cartilage, or medical conditions like arthritis. Whatever the cause, the result can be inflammation, stiffness, and pain that can get in the way of vigorous activity and even simple tasks like walking or bending. Here’s how to tackle everyday knee pain.

    Incorporate Gentle Exercise Into Your Daily Life – Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, tai chi, and light walking improve flexibility and joint function. If your knee pain is caused by an injury or a health condition like arthritis, check with your healthcare provider on the type of exercise that’s appropriate for you.

     

  • Whether you’re experiencing an achy back or bouts of knee pain, Aspercreme® is ready to deliver pain relief that’s quick, powerful, and long-lasting. Max Strength* Aspercreme Lidocaine Pain Relief Roll-On offers the maximum-strength lidocaine available without a prescription*. The non-greasy formula numbs pain away for fast, long-lasting relief in an easy apply-and-go formula.

    Don’t let aches and pains hold you back. With Aspercreme products, minor back or knee pain doesn’t have to get in the way of enjoying your boldest, most active life. Try Aspercreme yourself so you can be free to Act Your Age!

    Click here to shop for Max Strength* Aspercreme Lidocaine Pain Relief Roll-On and other products.

    *Among OTC topical analgesics for the indicated Use(s).

    Use as directed

    AARP Dynamic A Logo

    More for you, from AARP

    We are a community from AARP. Discover more ways AARP can help you live well, navigate life, save money — and protect older Americans on issues that matter.