PSA: protect your knees when you’re trying out these popular sports.
Knees are your body’s unsung heroes, supporting you as you skip, jump and sprint through life. But did you know that certain sports can spell trouble for your precious joints? Keep scrolling as we delve into five popular activities that commonly cause knee damage – and what you can do if your knees are already feeling the brunt of your sporting adventures.
1. Running
Many swear by running to clear their mind and clock in their steps. That said, this well-loved sport can lead to knee ailments for casual runners and marathoners alike. If you want to give your knees a breather, consider cross-training with lower impact exercises like swimming to reduce the risk of damage, and wear proper running shoes for the best support.
2. Spinning
Bright lights, pumping music: it’s easy to get carried away at one of the popular spin classes in the city. In the process, the repetitive motion of cycling can take a toll on your knees. To enjoy your spin classes safely, be sure to increase your speed gradually and take time to build up your stamina.
3. Basketball
The competitiveness of the basketball court might fuel your adrenaline, but this high-impact sport can also land your knees in a challenging spot. The frequent jumps, sudden changes in direction and accidental falls may have lasting effects on your joints. Tip: don’t skip the warm-ups or pre- and post-game stretches to protect your knees.
4. Tennis
Tennis has always been popular – and it’s also rising as a trendy sport of late. But whether you’re playing singles or doubles, the joy of tennis can come at a price for your knees due to the high number of quick pivots and speedy sprints that every match entails. Racket enthusiasts, try playing on softer courts like grass or switching to badminton as a lower impact option.
5. Football
The high-contact nature and intense running of football can lead to knee trouble over time. In particular, the delicate kneecap area is susceptible to overextension during kicks and runs. To reduce your risk of knee damage without missing the thrill of this sport, dedicate time to knee-strengthening exercises (like leg lifts and step ups) when you’re off the field.
How to treat your knees right: Prevention is better than cure
Whichever sport you prefer, there are certain preventative measures you can take to protect your precious knees. These include investing in supportive shoes, taking breaks from high-impact activities, and undergoing strength training to develop key muscles (such as your quads and hips) that support your knees.
But, what if you’re already experiencing knee damage? Fret not: there are solutions to restore your knee health, thanks to Oxford Orthopaedics. The dedicated team tailors healthcare treatments to your bone, muscle and joint needs. This includes partial knee replacements expertly conducted by Dr. James Wee, a dual-subspecialty trained orthopaedic surgeon with over 18 years of clinical experience. He is double fellowship-trained in hip and knee surgery as well as foot and ankle surgery, having completed fellowships at Oxford University Hospitals and the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in the UK. Backed by his clinical expertise, he also offers a solution to knee troubles with this minimally invasive surgery.
The Oxford Orthopaedics team also offers financial counselling and collaborates with insurers to find affordable ways to address your knee damage. Book an appointment to find out more – expert care is just a consultation away.
This post is in partnership with Oxford Orthopaedics.