Knee pain affects a large number of individuals, regardless of age or activity level. Knee problems that occur during exercise are usually the result of poor mechanics, failure to stretch and overuse. Excessive running, jumping, twisting, turning and bending during exercise can also lead to a variety of knee conditions caused by exercising. If you suspect you have a knee problem as the result of exercise, you should always consult your doctor in order to receive a diagnosis and begin an appropriate treatment course.
Causes
Knee pain during exercise can be the result of an injury, of medical conditions or of mechanical problems with your knees. Knee injuries can affect the tendons, ligaments, muscles and bones that surround your knee joints. An ACL tear, a torn meniscus, bursitis and tendinitis are common exercise related knee injuries. Knee problems can also be the result of medical conditions including arthritis or bone tumors. You can also experience knee pain due to loose bodies in your knee, kneecap dislocations or knee lockin. Hip or foot pain can also result in knee pain because they can cause you to change the way you walk and move.
Symptoms
Symptoms of knee problems can include swelling, stiffness, redness, warmth, pain, instability, weakness, locking, crunching or popping. You may also notice a visual deformity to your knee.
Treatment
Depending on the type of knee problem you are having, you may be able to treat your condition at home. You can start with the RICE method -- rest, ice, compression and elevation. If your symptoms do not subside after three days of using the RICE method, it is best to contact your physician. You should visit your doctor or an emergency department immediately if you cannot bear weight on your knee, or you are unable to extend your knee, have a fever, notice a deformity or fall because your knee continues to give out.
Prevention
You can prevent knee problems while exercising. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are the first steps to healthy knees. You should also stretch prior to exercise and get at least a five-minute warm-up before you start on a treadmill or an eliptical machine. After you warm up, stretch your knees and legs. Pay close attention to your quadriceps and hamstrings. You should also stretch your calf muscles. While you exercise, be sure to use proper form and avoid over-training -- start out slow and progress to higher intensity exercise. You should also wear sneakers that fit properly. You should replace your sneakers as they become worn to avoid injury. For knees that are unstable, consider using a knee brace for added support as you exercise. You may also want to consider low impact exercises. Low impact exercises are great of your overall health and do not place any stress on your knees are you are exercising. Consider swimming, cycling, a rowing machine, using an elliptical machine or signing up for a water aerobics class at your local gym.
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