Are The Steps Harmful To The Knee?

Are The Steps Harmful To The Knee?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 72 million Americans could be considered obese. One of the best ways to avoid becoming part of this statistic is through exercise. A common way to get the recommended amount of exercise is through walking movements, either walking up flights of stairs, using a step ladder or stair climber, or taking a step class. However, it is important to consider the health of the knees before taking part in these activities.

Exercises and knee problems

Knee problems can make exercise difficult, especially when pain is involved. Several conditions, in particular, can cause problems if you use a step exercise machine. These problems include arthritis, gout, chondromalacia, plica syndrome, tendon injuries, ligament injuries, and meniscal injuries. If you suffer from any of these conditions, consult your doctor before performing any exercise that is specifically based on the knee joint.

Staggered movement

Climbers imitate the action of climbing a flight of stairs. Each time you raise your leg, work your quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, glutes, adductors and hip flexors. The climber works especially the quadriceps femoral muscle that is attached to the patella by a tendon, and the vast intermedialis muscale at the base of the patella. These muscles are responsible for extending the leg in the knee and stabilizing the knee, respectively.

The problem

The problem with stairclimbers in relation to the knees is that they subject the joint to stress every time you perform the exercise. As the foot hits the moment of step, the gravity and weight of your body focuses on the joints, especially the knees and ankles. If your knee is affected by inflammation, pain or general weakness, this can make the climber a painful exercise, or it can even worsen the condition of the knee if you are overworked.

Alternatives

Several other exercise machines and devices can help you achieve your exercise goals without putting excessive strain on your knees. For example, ellipticals eliminate the effects you experience when walking by the type of body movement as it is circular instead of up and down. Water aerobics are another option for those with knee problems, since water buoyancy naturally helps lift your weight over the knee joint.

Video Tutorial: Ballet Beautiful: Lean Legs and Butt Shaper Workout- Mary Helen Bowers.

Like This? Share With Friends: