Knee Pain? FIX IT!

A reader writes:

I’m a yo-yo dieter and had lost about 20 pounds last year and I have now gained it all back.

Every time that I start exercising again, I have a set back with my knee injury, I can barely walk. If you have any suggestions please let me know.

Thanks for your e-mail. I have had so many of my past clients complain of injuries old and new.

Sometimes it is difficult for me to sympathize because often times the problems arise or get worse from neglect. You must forgive me for sounding harsh, but, if you have a problem – FIX IT!!

I’m not a physical therapist, but any injury causing knee pain will be exacerbated by extra weight. My column a few weeks ago warned against the pitfalls of “temporary” changes to eating habits. You obviously already know how to lose weight.

This time, I would consider a more permanent lifestyle change of healthy eating and moderation.

When you lost weight before, were you able to get more active? If the knee continues to become an issue no matter the weight, than I recommend physical therapy so that you can get to the root of the problem.

A physical therapist will give you sensible exercises that are tailored to your specific need. In addition to medical help, you must find another way to get moving.

Have you tried riding a bike? That is easier on the joints that walking. Also, any resistance exercise, such as squats or lunges, will get the muscles that support your knee stronger.

A gentle stretching routine will help lubricate ligaments and tendons around the knee that could help speed up the healing process.

Also, swimming is a great alternative with virtually no impact on joints.

With any knee or joint injury it is not so much what you do but more importantly that you DO something!

Postponing activity, especially when you are carrying extra pounds could cause permanent damage. Leading a sedentary lifestyle is always more dangerous that pushing those joints to move past some pain and discomfort.

So, whenever you are feeling pain or discomfort; or are having defeatist thoughts about will power or motivation, just imagine standing up when your child graduates from high school or college, or being able to get down on the floor to play with a niece, nephew or grandchild.

Also, consider the example you are setting for generations to come. Stop “using” your injury and allowing it to rob you of your health and happiness. FIX IT!