Rowing and Sore Knees

Sore knees and inflammation within the knees are common problems for rowers. For some, knee problems put an end to rowing and other intense exercise. However, various treatments are available that can help strengthen the knees and help rowers get and stay behind the oars.

Rowing

Rowing is a recreational and professional sport that takes place on almost every body of water, including oceans, lakes and rivers. Propelled by the work of the oar in the water, the boat is propelled in a race against other boats to make the best time from start to finish. Different techniques are involved in rowing. Learning different strokes for different movements in the water, breathing properly during rowing, and controlling rowing propulsion while sitting backward in the boat are all important to mastering the sport.

Sore Knees

Rowing can cause sore knees in a couple of different ways. The repetitive motion of compressing and flexing the knee during each stroke is stressful for the knees. The friction of this repetitive motion can lead to inflammation, which leads to lateral knee pain. Rowers who are bowlegged are at an increased risk of developing lateral knee pain, but it can happen to all rowers.

Patellofemoral syndrome is a knee pain that occurs behind the knee. It happens to rowers because their knees are kept in a bent position for long periods of time without rest. This issue is particularly a problem for women, but it may also happen in men.

Predisposition for Knee Injury

Most injuries among rowers actually occur during the off season, when intense training is done to get in shape to be the best in the boat. In fact, most rowers are also runners, and it is while running that many develop sore knees, knee sprains and chronic joint inflammation that flares up during the rowing season. Knee surgery may be necessary to mend knee sprains when they result in a rupture or tear of one of the ligaments. After physical therapy, a return to rowing is possible. If old knee injuries or a predisposition to developing knee injuries exist, speak with your doctor before beginning any new sport or exercise.

Prevention

One of the best ways for rowers to prevent the development of sore knees is to stretch before and after beginning a workout or training. Another good way to help prevent patellofemoral syndrome -- or knee pain behind the knee, in this case caused by keeping knees bent for long periods -- is to wear shoes that fit properly and to promote the right positioning of the knee during rowing. Leg extensions, squats and aerobics are also good ways to strengthen the knees in preparation for rowing and decrease the incidence of sore knees.