Problem knees can affect anyone, especially someone involved in sports, or physical activities, such as dancing. It may be that you may already have old injuries that are bothering you. These issues can be exacerbated by cold weather, or doing the same physical activity that initially caused problems for your knee. If you are finding that your knees are bothering you when you try to do your favorite activities, or even just as you go through your daily life doing relatively commonplace things, consider these methods to help you feel better, and ease the pain.
Wear a Knee Brace
If you enjoy playing sports, dancing, or even going for walks, but find that your knee gets irritated as you are doing this, give yourself permission to get the support you need. Wear a knee brace that is designed to help you support weak points in your knee. If you have a breakdown in cartilage or tears within the tissue, consider getting a knee brace for meniscus tear. Wearing one will allow you to continue to do the things you love. You’ll feel comfortable and even gain confidence while doing your favorite activities, since you will have the support you need to feel comfortable. Knee braces are not uncommon, and many people wear them to enjoy their favorite sports or physical activities. If you feel your knee is giving you problems while you do simple housework or go for a walk, consider wearing one to help you increase and maintain your mobility.
Keep Your Weight Down
Although knee problems can make it easy to gain weight, it is in your best interest to avoid bulking up. Doing so can create additional stress for your knee, making it hard to walk and get around. If you pack on too much weight in any one area, this may increase the strain you are putting on your body, including your knees. Some things you can do to ensure your you maintain the right weight level for your body include:
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Talking with your doctor about any knee problems you have, how they are related to your weight, and discussing what the right weight level is for you.
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Moderate exercise that allows you to burn calories, but don’t necessarily bulk up your legs. This means not doing excessive amounts of squats and focusing on other parts of the body as well.
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Looking for low-impact exercise that makes it easy to work out, without putting strain on legs. Swimming and water aerobics are known for being optimal choices for those that have knee and leg problems.
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Finding a diet plan that allows you to avoid fattening foods. This is best discussed with your doctor, but you may want to watch red meat, sweets and junk food, and replace those with foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
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Following these guidelines can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle, and keep you from gaining unneeded weight. This makes recovery difficult and can exacerbate the problem if left untreated.
Check Your Shoes
Take inventory of what type of shoes you wear, how old they are, and how they make your knees and legs feel. Women who wear high heels are expose themselves to further pain with their knees, particularly if they wear high heels such as stilettos. Consider how old your shoes are. Are the soles becoming worn down? Do you feel there is not much in the way of padding between you and the pavement? Replace your shoes with newer ones, and consider getting inserts that will give your heels additional cushion. If you feel that doesn’t solve your problem, talk to your doctor or speak to a podiatrist who can help you.
If You’re Being Adventurous, Use Extra Help
If you are planning on walking a long distance, or being a little more active than normal, you might want extra support. It can be hard to know how your knees are going to feel when you take on additional physical activity. Consider using a walking device, such as a cane or crutches. This will give you something additional to lean on. It might prevent you from insuring yourself further, while still allowing you to be active.
Even if you have knee injuries, don’t let them stop you from living a full life. Make sure you continue to engage in physical activity. If you find that the suggestions above are not helpful, seek advice from your doctor. With all the solutions available today, you may be able to keep your knee pain to a minimum, while doing the things you love.
