Taking care of your Knees

Did you know that the knee is one of the largest and most complex joints in the human body? Knees are designed for both mobility and stability. However, it’s also one of the most common injuries seen at Sea Spine Florida Orthopedic Institute.

Knee problems can occur from a fall, collision, or from awkward repetitive movements over a relatively long period of time, which result in injuries. Due to the high risk for knee problems, one should take special precautions to keep their knees healthy. Taking care of your knees can be easy if certain preventative actions are taken.

Watch your weight

Being over weight can put a lot of strain on the knees. So by staying fit and at a healthy weight your knees, and many other parts of your body, will appreciate it. Every extra pound adds about 4 extra pounds of pressure on the knees when walking. The risk for developing knee injury is 50% greater for people overweight than those without weight problems. If you feel pain, keeping a healthy weight helps minimize symptoms and can sometimes alleviate the pain altogether.

Walk Correctly

Something as simple as walking correctly can prevent future knee injuries. Example, Running up and down the stairs can put significant stress and strain on the kneecaps if you’re not in great shape. So walk, don’t run. Awkward surfaces like grass and cobblestone pathways can cause extra strain for those who suffer from past knee injuries. Choosing to walk on sidewalks or worn paths can help with stability and minimize the chances of tripping too.

Wear the right Shoes

It's amazing what a difference a good pair of shoes can make. Make sure the shoes you are wearing are right for the activity you are undertaking. Shoes for aerobics offer a different type of support than running shoes. Many people don't realize the importance of wearing the right athletic shoes. If you can’t afford shoes for every activity, use special inserts, such as arch supports.

Exercise properly

Exercising improperly or overdoing certain routines can inadvertently cause you to overextend the knee.  Warm up before working out and start off slow.  Cold muscles are more prone to cause injuries. Even if you're just going for a walk, you should begin at an easy pace before picking up speed.

After a workout apply ice packs to your knees to help keep reduce any pain and swelling from inflammation. Keep the ice pack wrapped in a towel and take it off after 20 minutes.

Consult an Expert.

If you are a very active person you may want to see a physician who's a specialist in sports Medicine. You don't have to be an athlete or a professional dancer to benefit from this type of doctor. Sports medicine focuses on getting you healed properly and back to an exercise routine.

If you have knee problems: heard a pop or a tear when you injured it, if it swells or if you just know you've hurt it badly, see a doctor. With new technologies like MRI scans and arthroscopy, experts can diagnose and treat knee problems quicker, easier, and better. If you feel uncomfortable, or sharp pains seek a professional’s help without delay.

Use common sense and listen to your body. Aim for prevention whenever possible and seek out help when appropriate. Your body does communicate to you. You just need to listen.  If you're looking for professional and experienced high-rated Florida orthopedic surgeons, contact SeaSpine Orthopedic Institute today at (http://www.seaspineortho.com/) or call  866-816-ORTHO.

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