Will Weight Loss Help Your Knee Pain?
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Are you struggling with knee pain and wondering if losing weight could be the answer?
In this article, we’re going to explore the connection between weight loss and knee pain relief…
And effective strategies to lose weight and alleviate knee pain right now.
Let’s get into it.
How losing weight helps knee pain
Reduced pressure on the knee joints
Did you know that walking puts 1.5 times your bodyweight through each foot?
And if you’re a runner 2-3 times your bodyweight through each foot. (1)
Losing weight will help decrease pressure on your knee joints, which will affect the pain you’re feeling right now.
Less pressure also means less wear and tear on your joints, which means more joint comfort, and a happier healthier life.
Improved joint mobility
Shedding excess weight can improve your joint mobility and flexibility. (2)
As you lose weight you will find your joint can move more freely without carrying extra pounds.
By having more mobile joints you will find you experience less pain in your knees, better range of motion, and overall function.
Decreased inflammation
Weight loss helps lower inflammation in your body. (3)
Excess weight often leads to increased inflammation, which can lead to type 2 diabetes, heart attacks, and cancer.
By losing weight, you can reduce inflammation and lessen knee pain as a result.
More muscle strength and stability
Strong muscles are essential for reducing your knee pain. When your muscles, and tendons aren’t strong enough your body basically goes –
“Nope can’t cope with that”
And this is how injuries happen.
Weight loss can help improve your muscle strength and stability. This will give you better support around the knee which will help with knee pain. (4)
How can you lose weight?
Adopt a healthy, balanced diet: Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Cut back on processed foods, sugar, and excessive saturated fats. You’ll be well on your way to a healthier you with no knee pain from this alone
Exercise regularly: Combining cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises are a great way to help you lose weight, and be healthier
Stay hydrated: Drinking water can help control your appetite and maintain a healthy digestion
Get enough sleep: Sleep really is the foundation for your health and weight loss success. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night
Manage your stress: Find healthy ways to cope with stress, like meditation, as stress can lead to emotional eating and weight gain
Seek professional help: get yourself a coach that can help with personalised support
How can you get rid of your knee pain?
Apply ice or heat: Use ice packs for pain that has just cropped up, and heat packs for pain that has been around for some time. This will help to reduce your inflammation and provide relief
Wear footwear that’s right for you: Supportive and well-fitting shoes can reduce stress on your knee joints
Get a coach: A coach can provide specific exercises and stretches to improve the function of your knee and reduce your pain
Consider alternative therapies: Acupuncture, sports massage, or chiropractic care may provide additional pain relief
How to know if your knee pain is weight-related
Pain worsens when you’re active: If your knee pain increases when you walk, climb stairs, run and so on - it may be weight-related
Do you feel pain when you rest? If sitting or laying down decreases your pain, this could suggest its related to weight
Do your knees swell or feel inflamed? Carrying excess weight can contribute to swelling and inflammation in your knee joint
Does your knee pain get worse after weight gain? If your knee pain gets worse after gaining weight, there may be a correlation between the two
So…
Will weight loss help with your knee pain?
Yes, weight loss can help alleviate knee pain.
By reducing pressure on the joints, improving joint mobility, decreasing inflammation, and enhancing muscle strength and stability, losing weight can contribute to knee pain relief and better overall knee health.
However, it's essential to adopt a healthy lifestyle and consult with a medical professional for personalized advice and guidance.
By working through what we’ve mentioned in this blog, you will reduce your knee pain, lose weight, and improve your health.
What’s one thing from this blog you are going to work on right away? Let us know in the comments below.
Don’t wait any longer; start your journey today and experience the benefits of a healthier lifestyle!