Knee pain is a widespread problem, particularly among adults and older individuals.
Nevertheless, experts point out that certain types of exercise can help support knee function over time.
According to medical research published in JAMA, knee pain accounts for around five percent of all consultations with general practitioners.
A widespread problem
Many people try to protect their knees by avoiding strain and physical activity.
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But according to the media outlet Parade, too little movement can in some cases have the opposite effect.
Several orthopedic surgeons explain in the article that the cartilage in the knee does not have its own blood supply.
Instead, the tissue receives nutrients through movement, where repeated loading and unloading help transport nutrients to the cartilage.
This means that regular and controlled movement may be important for keeping the knee joint functional over time.
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The muscles around the knee
Stability in the knee depends largely on the muscles surrounding the joint. When the muscles in the thighs, hips, and glutes are strong, they can absorb part of the load that would otherwise affect the knee joint itself.
According to Parade, orthopedic surgeon Luke Garbarino highlights that several large muscle groups work together in many lower-body exercises.
These include the thigh muscles, glutes, abdominal muscles, and calves.
If these muscles are weak or do not work properly together, the knee may be exposed to greater mechanical stress. This can increase the risk of pain or injury.
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Doctors’ recommendations
How much exercise is appropriate depends on the person’s health and physical condition.
According to Parade, orthopedic surgeon David Shau believes that training should be adjusted so that the knee does not swell or cause more pain the following day.
For people without knee problems, two to three sets of lunges with eight to ten repetitions per leg a couple of times per week may be a starting point.
People with knee osteoarthritis or previous surgeries should often begin more cautiously.
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