Posts Tagged ‘Arthritis’

There seems to be a common misconception that, if you have knee pain, you should stay away from any type of strength training such as weight lifting or resistance exercise. But actually, the opposite may be true.

According to Fitness Alert, researchers reviewed the findings of 18 studies involving 3,000 patients who had knee pain due to arthritis.   They discovered that resistance training “reduced pain and improved physical function, walking speed, and balance.”

When the muscles surrounding the knee are weak, it causes instability which stresses the joint. This stress leads to deterioration of the cartilage which cushions the joint.  With the protective cushion damaged, the joint surfaces develop irregularities and the membranes that secrete lubricating fluid don’t work as efficiently.

Strengthening the muscles around the joint helps treat the knee pain by improving the stability of the knee.  Of course, you absolutely must check with your doctor before using strength training or any other type of therapy for knee pain.

What methods have you used to deal with knee pain? Please tell us about it in the comments section below.