It seems counter intuitive, but it’s possible to reduce knee pain, and in some cases eliminate it altogether, by taking regular exercise to mobilize the muscles and provide conditioning of the knee joint. Exercise is a necessary aspect of staying healthy and mobile. Adults are encouraged by the Centers for Disease Control to engage in moderate aerobic activity at least 5 hours a week. Getting the right amount of exercise is important in order to maximize benefits. However, it is also crucial to identify which type of exercise is best for you. If you are someone who wants to reduce knee pain, or who struggles with hip or back pain you may gain the greatest advantages from low impact exercise.
Low Impact Does NOT Equal Low Benefit In our hit-it-hard society, there could be a misconception that low impact workouts aren’t really doing you any good, or are providing minimal benefit. This is not the case! In fact, there are millions of people in our country who are best served by this type of exercise. All “low impact” really means is that one foot or the other stays on the ground throughout the entire workout. Without the jumping (and landing), this means less impact on the joints in the lower extremities.
Here’s What it Looks Like Imagine getting a good workout by doing yoga, or by taking a brisk walk. There are several options for low impact exercise, including kayaking or paddle boarding, biking, hiking, swimming, or doing water aerobics. Dancing even qualifies as a low impact activity.
Who Benefits Any man or woman whose knees hurt or crackle, or who have osteoarthritis in the hips or knees, could benefit a great deal from low impact exercise. Older individuals with osteoporosis, as well, are encouraged to stay active in the gentlest manner. Age aside, low impact exercise has been shown to be very beneficial for people of all ages who want to lessen the stress on feet, legs, knees, and hips. There is no hard and fast rule that says a workout has to be strenuous or lengthy to promote better health, wellness, and vitality. What better way to take care of your body than to remain active for more years of your life thanks to the gentleness of low impact exercise!
Do you have questions about the right type of exercise to reduce knee pain? The team at Action Sports & Pain Management is happy to speak with you! Give us a call today.
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