For nosebleed, drop car keys down back

Q. You have mentioned the idea that dropping car keys down the back can stop a nosebleed. You said that this was the most bizarre nosebleed remedy you had ever received, and that it makes no sense.

Instead of making a judgment like that, you should try it to see if it is true. No one should jump to conclusions about a remedy before it is tested.

I am writing to tell you that shortly after I read your article, I got a nosebleed. I have frequently had a hard time stopping them. I tried the car-key trick, and in no time at all, the nosebleed stopped. Just remember that old wives’ remedies are often the best.

A. You are not the only one who has had success with this remedy. In fact, we have tried it ourselves and found it helpful. Anyone who would like to see a video of this remedy should search “How to stop a nosebleed” at www.peoplespharmacy.com.

Q. I’m writing to tell you about my excellent experience using gelatin for hip pain. I’ve had a chronic ache in my hip for several years. I’ve seen a chiropractor, whose ministrations were effective but temporary. Pilates helped for just a little while, and yoga had no effect. My doc took an X-ray and said she didn’t see any arthritis. The chiropractor said he did and told me to eat Jell-O.

I decided to give it a try on the theory that it was perfectly harmless even if it didn’t work. For about six weeks I ate roughly half a packet of Knox Gelatine a day (prepared, not dry). No effect. But in a fit of hunger and frustration one day, I gobbled up the remaining half-pan, about two packets’ worth. The next morning, I awoke completely pain-free.

I went online and found that people who use it recommend one packet a day. I’ve been doing that now for about two months, with only a very occasional twinge in my hip after driving for 12 hours.

A. This remedy fits our favorite criteria: won’t hurt, might help, and doesn’t cost too much. Thanks so much for sharing your experience.

Anyone who is interested in other nondrug approaches for joint pain may be interested in our Guide to Alternatives for Arthritis. To request a copy, please send $3 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (61 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons’ People’s Pharmacy, No. AA-2, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027. It also can be downloaded for $2 from our website.