I have written before about the many benefits of regular strength training and a new study illustrates those perfectly. Many of our clients at GH came to us experiencing front knee pain. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is “a condition in which pain occurs at the front of the knee during or after exercise…women are more likely to be affected than men, and symptoms usually start during adolescence when participation in sporting activities is high,” ScienceDaily. Typical care for this syndrome involves avoiding activities that cause pain and to rest when pain is experienced. A study in the Netherlands compared two groups of people with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome for 12 months, one engaging in typical care of rest and avoidance, the other engaging in supervised exercise therapy. The recovery rates were better for the exercising group, with the authors of the study asserting that “supervised exercise therapy for patellofemoral pain syndrome in general practice is more effective than usual care for pain at rest, pain on activity, and function.”
Here at GH we have helped many people with knee pain regain confidence in their body and movement. Remaining active is achievable for almost anyone, with the proper modifications and progression. As a GH Trainer, I spend a great deal of time planning and customizing workouts to modify for various conditions, including knee pain. Chronic aches and pains can easily be used as excuses not to exercise, when they should be interpreted as signals to do exactly the opposite! Regular strength training can help to lessen aches and pains, regain strength, improve coordination, restore confidence, and boost self-esteem. The next time your knee hurts, think of the pain as your body’s way of telling you it needs a GH workout!
