Got Knee Pain? Avoid These 5 Mistakes That Could Make It Worse!

Knee pain is a common complaint. If you suffer from it, you should not simply ignore it and hope that it goes away. You might even be making mistakes that are worsening your discomfort! What are some practices that might exacerbate knee pain, and how can you make positive changes to find relief? This blog post provides helpful information.

Not Moving Enough

You might believe that resting your knee completely is the best solution for pain relief. However, too little movement can actually lead to stiffness, weaker muscles, and decreased joint flexibility. If you choose to remain inactive, you risk prolonging your discomfort and limiting your recovery.

Try to incorporate regular movement into your routine, being careful not to overdo it. Gentle, low-impact exercises such as walking, cycling, or swimming can help maintain your knee’s strength and mobility.

Wearing the Wrong Shoes

Your footwear choices play a significant role in your knee health. Shoes that lack adequate support or cushion can alter your posture and the way you walk, increasing pressure on your knees. High heels, sandals with little arch support, or worn-out sneakers may contribute to misalignment and pain.

Opt for shoes that fit well and provide proper support for your activities. Athletic shoes with sturdy soles and cushioning can absorb shock and help reduce stress on your knees. If you notice increased pain after wearing certain shoes, consider switching to a more supportive pair. You may choose to visit an orthopedic shoe store for help in choosing the right footwear.

Failing to Manage Your Weight

Excess weight places additional strain on your knees, as these joints carry much of your body’s load. Even a small amount of extra weight can increase the pressure on your knees while you walk or climb stairs. Over time, this added force can accelerate the breakdown of joint cartilage and make knee pain worse. By maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity, you help reduce the stress on your knees and may experience less discomfort.

Not Listening to Your Body

Ignoring warning signs or pushing through strenuous activities can have serious consequences. If you feel pain, swelling, or instability, your body is signaling that something is wrong. Repeatedly performing high-impact activities, such as running on hard surfaces or lifting heavy objects without proper form, can worsen existing injuries or create new ones.

Take the time to rest when your knees feel sore, and modify your exercise routine if you experience discomfort. Pay attention to what your body tells you and avoid activities that aggravate your knee pain.

Not Visiting a Doctor

If your knee pain persists or worsens, you should not delay seeking professional help. Attempting to self-diagnose or self-treat may lead to complications or missed opportunities for early intervention. A physician can assess your condition, recommend diagnostic tests, and suggest appropriate treatments or therapies.

Are you doing anything that could worsen your knee pain? Now is the time to evaluate your habits and make healthful changes.

Meet the Practice

At the Institute for Non-Surgical Orthopedics our large team of medical professionals provides a broad range of treatments for musculoskeletal complaints, including various types of knee pain. If you are ready to find relief from ongoing discomfort, we can evaluate the situation and provide guidance on your next steps. Contact our Fort Lauderdale office at 954-563-2707.