Oh My Aching Knees

Knee pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages. It is typically the result of an injury, such as a ruptured ligament or torn cartilage, overuse, prolonged sitting, or medical conditions, including; arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, gout, or infections.

So what can you do to help protect your knees as you age?

Maintain a healthy weight. Extra body weight increases stress on knee joints, even during daily activities such as walking or stair climbing.

It also increases the risk of osteoarthritis by accelerating the breakdown of joint cartilage. Do not smoke. Smoking increases inflammation in your body— making it harder for your joints and bones to heal. Follow an anti-inflammatory diet. Lowering inflammation in your body can help keep your joints healthy. The

Mediterranean diet contains berries, nuts, and leafy greens—all known to fight inflammation naturally.

Remember your previous injuries. Having a previous knee injury makes you more susceptible to injuring it again.

Low-Impact Joint-Friendly Activities

n Biking n Swimming n Tai chi n Walking n Water aerobics n Yoga One of the best things for you to do is to stay as active as possible without overdoing it. Participate in activities that are realistic for your age. An orthopedic surgeon can help determine what activities are appropriate if you have an injury or aging muscles, ligaments, or cartilage; however, surgery is not always the answer. “If surgery is not necessary, a physical therapist may help—they will create a safe exercise program for you that will promote healthy knees and make adjustments to help you function in Increase muscle strength and flexibility. Strong muscles help stabilize and protect your joints, and muscle flexibility can help you achieve a full range of motion. Stay hydrated. Keeping your body well-hydrated helps your joints stay lubricated and healthy. everyday life. If surgery is necessary, there is also a great benefit to physical therapy before surgery and following surgery,” says Lori Crawford, Director of Rehabilitative Services at Syracuse Home. Seek medical help as soon as you feel any discomfort or pain in your knees. It may prevent major complications or surgery in the future. If you or someone you know needs short-term rehabilitation for joint replacement, stroke, cardiac/post-operative surgery, illness, or accident, Did you know? You will reduce the load on your knee joints by four pounds with every extra pound you lose. That means if you lose 10 pounds, it is 40 pounds Eliminate or limit less weight in each step for your knees to please contact our admissions department at high-risk sports and support. Less pressure means less wear 315-638-2521. activities. Some sports put and tear on your knees and a lower excessive stress on your knees. risk of osteoarthritis. Downhill skiing, basketball, volleyball, jumping rope, and running may increase your knee injury risk.