Out of all the joints in the body, the knee joint takes the most stress. It supports much of the body's weight during activities like walking, running, jumping, and standing. Because the knee is involved in nearly all movements, it bears a significant load, especially during high-impact activities or when carrying excess weight. Additionally, the knee is a hinge joint, meaning it has limited movement, which can lead to increased stress on the ligaments, tendons, and cartilage over time.

Here are some tips for looking after your knees.

1. Exercise Regularly:

Strengthening the muscles around your knees, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, can help support the joint and reduce the risk of injury. Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and walking are beneficial.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight:

Carrying excess weight puts additional stress on your knees. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of joint pain and wear over time.

3. Stretch and Warm Up Properly:

Before any physical activity, make sure to stretch and warm up your muscles. Flexibility helps prevent strain on the knee joint during exercise.

4. Use Proper Footwear:

Wear shoes with good arch support to avoid misalignment and unnecessary strain on your knees. If you're doing high-impact activities, consider using cushioning shoes or orthotics.

5. Avoid Overuse:

Repetitive stress from activities like running or jumping can wear out knee joints. Make sure to vary your activities and take breaks when needed.

6. Rest and Recovery:

Allow your knees time to recover after strenuous activities. If you feel pain or discomfort, rest and apply ice to reduce inflammation.

7. Incorporate Balance and Stability Training:

Exercises that improve balance can help prevent falls and protect knee joints from sudden stresses.

8. Stay Hydrated:

Proper hydration supports joint lubrication and reduces the risk of stiffness.

How Sports Massage can help:

Sports massage can help by addressing surrounding muscles, tendons and ligaments if you are experiencing knee pain. It improves circulation, increases flexibility, reduces inflammation and relaxes surrounding muscles.

PLEASE NOTE: THE KNEE IS A COMPLEX PART OF THE BODY AND SOME KNEE PROBLEMS MAY BE ACUTE AND NOT SOLVED BY SPORTS MASSAGE ALONE. IT IS ALWAYS ADVISABLE TO SEEK ADVICE FROM A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL IF YOU SUSPECT SOMETHING MORE SERIOUS.