Fighting The Pain To Enjoy The Game
Staying in the game is often a physical challenge for those who suffer from hip and knee pain. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, many Americans exercise by staying active in their favorite hobbies, such as biking, skiing and tennis. But even if you remain active, there’s always a chance of experiencing some type of physical pain during your life.
“Hip and knee pain is not uncommon for people with active lifestyles,” says Rufus W. Gore, M.D., orthopedic surgeon at John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital. “Patients need to be more aware of the type and level of pain they are experiencing to prevent further damage.”
Hip and knee pain is usually the result of overuse or poor form during physical activity. Poor form can include not warming up or cooling down, and inadequate stretching. Excess weight can also contribute to hip and knee pain.
Preparing the body for hobbies and sports is important for anyone at any age, but it is especially important for seniors. You should always warm-up with slow, rhythmic activities such as walking, and gradually increase the intensity of your warm-up until your pulse rate, respiration rate and body temperature are slightly elevated. Doing easy stretching exercises before moving on to main activities may also help reduce hip and knee pain.
Some cases of knee pain respond well to self-care measures. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, a common method used by orthopedic surgeons to treat mild knee injuries is RICE. That stands for: rest, ice, compression and elevation. Rest the knee by staying off it or walking only with crutches. Apply ice to control swelling. Use a compressive elastic bandage applied snugly but loosely enough so that it does not cause pain. Finally, keep the knee elevated.
Physical activity remains a critical component to helping improve the quality of life for patients. The benefits of participating in an active lifestyle may include:
- Longer, healthier life;
- Stronger bones;
- Reduced joint and muscle pain;
- Improved mobility and balance;
- Lower percentage of falls and serious injuries, such as hip fractures; and
- Slower loss of muscle mass.
Article provided to the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce – GEM Publication March 2006 page 14.
http://www.lqchamber.com/pdf/gem_mar06.pdf
