If you suffer from knee pain, you may assume it’s just a natural part of aging or an old injury flaring up. However, everyday habits could be contributing to your discomfort and even making the pain worse. Identifying these habits and making small adjustments can help relieve knee pain and improve mobility.
- Wearing Unsupportive Footwear. Shoes with poor arch support or worn-out soles force your knees to absorb extra shock, leading to misalignment and pain. Custom foot orthotics or supportive shoes help distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on the knee joints.
- Sitting for Long Periods. Lack of movement also reduces blood flow, increasing inflammation. Standing up, stretching, and taking short walks throughout the day keeps the joints flexible and reduces pain.
- Ignoring Weak Ankles and Poor Posture. Weak ankles and improper posture shift pressure onto the knees, causing discomfort and joint stress. Rolling ankles inward, for example, forces the knees to compensate. Strengthening ankle stability with foot orthotics and maintaining proper posture can ease knee pain.
- Overloading Your Knees Without Strength Training. High-impact activities like running or jumping put significant strain on the knees, especially if the surrounding muscles are weak. Strength training for the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves provides better knee support, reducing the risk of injury and pain.
- Neglecting Proper Recovery After Exercise. Skipping warm-ups, stretching, or post-workout recovery can worsen knee pain. Stretching helps maintain flexibility, while icing and resting sore knees reduce inflammation.
Ignoring knee pain may lead to more serious joint problems. At York Foot Orthotics and Bracing, we provide custom orthotics and braces to improve alignment and relieve knee pain. Contact us today for a free consultation and find the right support for your knees.