Knee Deep in Pain? 5 Mistakes to Avoid

If you have experienced pain in your knees and you have wondered how to ease your discomfort, think about your lifestyle and habits to make a few changes. Some aspects of your daily routine or even your weight may contribute to your knee problems. Fortunately, many of the contributing factors can be corrected.

Here are mistakes you should fix now to help ease your knee pain.

1. Allowing Yourself to Become Overweight

Did you know that a link exists between being overweight and experiencing chronic knee pain? Whether you have knee arthritis or you simply suffer from recurrent pain in one or both knees, you should try to maintain an optimal weight.

Being overweight causes inflammation in your body, and this, in turn, leads to pain. By losing the excess weight, you may find that your weight-bearing pressure is reduced, and the inflammation and pain has subsided. Your physician may advise you of the best way to lose weight and what your optimal weight should be.

2. Neglecting to Warm Up Before a Workout

If you participate in sports or you enjoy a vigorous workout, warm up your knees before you begin your routine. Failing to warm up properly may result in knee injury, torn ligaments, and pain. Counteract this problem by establishing a good warm-up routine before exercising. Whether you do squats or gentle stretching, it may help you avoid knee problems later.

3. Living a Sedentary Lifestyle

If you believe the answer to your knee pain is relaxing on the sofa day in and day out, you should rethink that notion. Instead, experts believe that exercise is vital for maintaining mobility in the knees. Begin by trying low-impact exercise such as a brisk daily walk. If you prefer, use a treadmill or elliptical machine. Mobility may help you remain flexible and avoid stiffness and pain.

Aquatic (water) exercises may help, and strength training may be beneficial as well. The key to success is to stick with your exercise routine. Before you begin any type of exercise regimen, seek approval from your physician.

4. Wearing the Wrong Type of Footwear

Did you know that your shoes may have a direct impact on your knees? If you suffer from chronic knee pain, you might want to consider the footwear you’ve chosen. The wrong type of shoes may contribute to stress on the joints of your knees, and this may be a source of your problem.

Here are a few questions to ponder: Do your shoes have proper cushioning? The cushion will provide support to resist impact as you walk or exercise. If you walk as part of your daily routine, wear supportive walking shoes. If you run, you should wear athletic shoes that provide extra support.

Wearing high heels is never a good idea, as women who do so may place pressure on their knees. Avoid the knee stress by wearing flat shoes rather than pumps or heels.

5. Failing to Get a Proper Diagnosis and Treatment for Your Knee Pain

If you suffer from chronic or recurring knee pain that does not respond to at-home treatment, seek professional advice. Choosing to ignore the pain may only make the problem worse by causing further joint damage or injury.

If the pain does not subside or also has redness and swelling, you may need medical treatment. Before your office visit, make a list of pertinent details you can share with your doctor. Write down when the pain first occurred and what eases your discomfort. Note any other symptoms you have as well.

Make an appointment at a knee treatment center today, and get the help you need to function at your best.