The orthopedist responds and gives advice to those thinking of starting
Running is an accessible physical activity that can be done anywhere, anytime. And road races are becoming more and more frequent, which ends up acting as a stimulus for enthusiasts and beginners.
But can this high-impact activity harm your knees? See what orthopedist Marcos Cortelazo, specialist of this joint and member of the Brazilian Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology (SBOT), answers:
“Many people believe that sports can damage the joint, but there is no scientific evidence to prove this information.”
According to the doctor, running can have a protective effect on the knees, as long as it is done correctly. This is because, in addition to strengthening the leg muscles, which guarantees greater protection for the joints, the activity helps a lot in weight loss.
“The correct functioning of the knee depends on the action of different muscles, so practicing exercises that help strengthen this muscle, such as running, is able to improve the joint function of the region, as well as helping to maintain its stability during movement and to reduce load on the joint”, he underlines.
The orthopedist adds that the knee cartilage also becomes more resistant due to the repeated impacts it receives during running. “And we have evidence that running can delay wear and tear on joints and prevent diseases such as arthritis and osteoarthritis.”
It is worth remembering that a sedentary lifestyle and consequent excess weight are factors that increase the risk of joint overload, which in turn can cause arthritis and osteoarthritis.
How about “runner’s knee”?
Cortelazo says this is the popular term for a condition called “iliotibial band syndrome.” Despite the association with running, the problem can occur in enthusiasts of different types of high intensity physical activity, especially if practiced inappropriately or excessively.
The iliotibial tract is a band of fibrous tissue that extends from the ilium (in the pelvis) to the tibia (just below the knee). Symptoms include swelling, pain on the side of the knee, and limited movement in the region. Treatment includes rest, ice, medications for pain and inflammation, and corticosteroid injections. More severe cases require surgery.
Advice for those who want to get started
To avoid the risk of injuries such as runner’s knee, among others, the orthopedist recommends some precautions:
– If you’ve never run, start slowly, speeding up your walking pace. “As you get fitter, pick up the pace and increase the time and frequency of your running,” he advises.
– Warm up before starting the race.
– Choose a trainer suited to the activity and your type of stride: the shoe must be light and comfortable, as well as offering stability and a sophisticated cushioning system.
– If you suffer from any joint disease, it is essential to check with your doctor whether you can run.
– If you feel pain while running, stop running and, if the discomfort does not go away soon, consult an orthopedist.
Remember that it is advisable to consult a doctor before carrying out any type of physical activity, and that having the support of a physical education professional can not only prevent injuries, but also make running more effective in achieving your goals.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
