A knee "mechanics" question

[KnottedYet]

If it hurts more than a few minutes (max 30) after you do it, not so good.

[Wahine]

This is a very structural/alignment issue. You need to be working on those things first and foremost, that means PT exercises and pilates, but be aware that pilates does not work your glute max so it doesn't replace the PT exercises. Acupuncture may help manage the pain but isn't going to get you better much faster with this problem.

I'm going to try to find the link for guidelines I gave once for pain with activity. But in the meantime you should know that any sharp debilitating pain like you're describing is not good. Aching is a different story.

TBC...

[crazycanuck]

Thanks ladies!

I tried one get out of the saddle move & the pain in front of the knee isn't there today because my knee's taped. I'll just work on getting stronger in the saddle I think making cycling a struggle right now isn't what i have in mind..

THe folks @ the pilates studio have me doing glute exercises & they're almost exactly the same as the ones the physio gave me.

TBC indeed. I will keep an eye on things..

[rocknrollgirl]

I remember you posted this for me, I found it in the PT thread.


I'm going to post my guidelines here on the achy factor. I hope it doesn't just confuse people more.

General rule of thumb (there are always exceptions, especially if part of the treatment includes breaking up scar tissue):

Sharp pain is bad and activities that cause sharp pain during the activity should be avoided until discussed further with the PT

Muscle aching is OK and even good. I think most of you understand this.

A little aching in an injured joint, tendon, ligament is OK as long as it subsides within 2 hours of the activity and does not cause a change in function eg limping. If it lasts longer that 2 hours or causes a change in function, it may still be a good activity but requires some tweaking (time, intensity, positioning...)

Intense aching that last longer than a day is an indicator of an activity that you're not ready for and needs to be adjusted.

No aching in the injured tissue at all during an activity followed by aching later that day or the next day, typically means that the achig is coming from increased stress on the area from muscle imblances that are working against you either during the activity or as they tighten up afterward. That means closer attention to stretching, self myofascial release, yoga.

Phew. Hope that helps and doesn't confuse.
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[crazycanuck]

Hey RNRG,

Thanks for posting that info.

I'm following the "Sharp pain is bad and activities that cause sharp pain during the activity should be avoided until discussed further with the PT..". Sitting in the saddle for all uphill jaunts it is for now! The physio dude wants me to keep an eye on this for the next month..I shall work on the exercises & keep my knee taped for a few more bike rides..

Straightening the hip will be key...