Mavis, a 70 year old lady, came to the clinic after going to see her GP about her painful knee. This had been troubling her for several years, but was gradually getting worse. She had been told that the knee was arthritic and nothing could be done other than to take anti-inflammatory tablets. During the examination it was found that Mavis had a painful swollen knee joint that was stiff to move and the muscles around the joint were very weak.

Treatment consisted of advice regarding ice packs to reduce the swelling, home exercises and a sensible balance of activity and rest. Acupuncture was used to good effect to alleviate Mavis's pain.

At the end of the course of treatment Mavis was more mobile, her leg felt stronger and her pain was under control. She was pleased that she could manage her problem and did not have to just 'learn to live with it'.