Question: I am a woman in my mid-30s. I have recently felt pain in my knee joints which I suspect is due to carrying a heavy laptop daily. Is it advisable for me to engage in the following sports, mainly one-hour classes at my gym: aerobics (which I do regularly) and weight-lifting (which I would like to take up)?
Apart from glucosamine sulphate, which I try not to take as I am not a strong believer in supplements, are there any other solutions?
A bone mineral density test I took at a shopping mall road show indicated normal results, implying that I do not have osteoporosis.
Answer: First, to get a diagnosis of the cause of the pain in your knees, you should see a doctor. For your age group, the most common cause of non-traumatic knee pain would be anterior knee pain syndrome or tendinitis.
In general, good muscular control of In general, good muscular control of joints is required for most physical activities. Developing muscular strength and flexibility may be beneficial to your symptoms, depending on the condition.
Keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, so an individualised and properly supervised programme, involving a mix of strength, posture, flexibility and aerobic exercises, will be good.
The physical activities you listed are okay if you do not experience any pain from engaging in the activities. It is important to listen to your body.
Osteoporosis is a condition characterised by low bone mineral density, causing weakness in bones that leads to an increase in risk of fractures.
A balanced diet that has adequate calcium as well as regular weight-bearing exercises are preventive measures.
DR KELVIN CHEW
Consultant sports physician, Singapore Sports Medicine Centre in partnership with Changi Sports Medicine Centre