Warming Up with Dynamic Stretching
Dynamic stretching is a movement-based type of stretching that uses the muscles themselves in order to bring about a stretch. Unlike static stretching, in which a stretch is held for a period of time, dynamic stretches can be functional and even mimic the movements of the activity or exercise you’re about to perform. Both static […]
Benefits of Static Stretches
Static stretches, which are stretches that are held in a set position for a short amount of time, can benefit people with knee osteoarthritis. This type of stretching, where one holds a particular stretch for 20-45 seconds, is one that is usually done before a workout, such as going for a walk, a run, or […]
Benefits of Stretching
Regular stretching can help reduce osteoarthritis knee pain and increase mobility. However, the key word here is “regular” and not just once in a while. Studies have found that the best way to become someone that practices any type of exercise regularly (this includes stretching) is to develop an exercise habit. In developing an exercise […]
Natural Pain Relief Through Exercise
Exercise can be as beneficial to reducing knee pain as over-the-counter pain relievers. Yet the idea of exercising to reduce knee pain for those of us with osteoarthritis might sound a little crazy. However, it’s not. And studies such as this one, prove it. Land-based exercises such as walking, moderate cycling, and strength training can […]
Building an Exercise Habit
“All big things come from small beginnings. The seed of every habit is a single, tiny decision but as that decision is repeated, a habit sprouts and grows stronger. Roots entrench themselves and branches grow. The task of breaking a bad habit is like uprooting a powerful oak within us. And the task of building […]
Exercise and Maintaining a Healthy Weight
One of the most common goals of the new year is to exercise more and lose weight. This is a great goal, especially when it comes to dealing with the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, as exercise and maintaining a healthy weight, can both decrease knee pain and increase knee mobility. Those of us that already […]
“New Year, New You”
You may have heard the phrase “New Year New You”, and you may have heard it recently, given the time of year. That’s right, it’s January, and it’s also the kickoff point for New Year’s Resolutions. One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is exercising more and losing weight– which is especially important for […]
Not All Carbs are Bad Carbs
Studies have shown that refined carbohydrates such as white pasta, white bread, cookies, and cakes can all contribute to increased knee and joint pain. Due to the grains being stripped of their fiber, these processed grains result in processed carbohydrates like white flour, which is quickly converted into sugar in the body. This results in […]
Refined Carbohydrates and Knee Pain
There is one thing that artificial sweeteners, processed meats, and processed carbohydrates all have in common, and it’s not good. They’re delicious? Maybe. They can lead to weight gain? Well, yes. When consumed in excess they can lead to numerous health problems? Yes. But what about their effect specifically on those of us with knee […]
Ham, Bacon, and Inflammation
For those of us with knee osteoarthritis, the momentary enjoyment of consuming processed foods can be followed by increased inflammation and as a result, increased knee pain. Cutting back on the many desserts available during holiday parties, and the many sugary beverages or artificially sweetened sodas that accompany them can certainly help keep inflammation at […]