I'm 37 years old and have been stepping on a 6" step for years. I started having knee pains recently, different pains in different places in each knee. I read the thread about Glucosamine/Chondroitin and decided to start taking it. After about a week of taking it my right knee started snap-crackle-popping when I bend it. I thought it might be a sign that the G/C is doing something, so I'm continuing to take it. The knee pains are still there and I'm down to a 4" step. My knees feel so fragile and delicate. I've never injured them, so I was wondering if this is a normal sign of aging, or is there something wrong? Any feedback would be appreciated, because I'm real close to going to the doctor for x-rays, because I can't think of anything else to do. Could the Glucosamine be doing more harm than good? If I have to stop stepping my life will be over. Dig my grave. Please help!
knee pain
- Thread starter Joey
- Start date
Bobbi
Cathlete
I doubt it's the gluclosamine/condroitin. It's probably just your age. I am 38 and have noticed my knees are beginning to complain about stairs and kneeling. Keep using the gluclosamine. It's supposed to help, but realize that some of this type of degeneration is inevitable (for some of us, who are prone to it) and modify accordingly. Keep smiling too!
Judy,
Obviously, its preferable if you can check with the doctor if this has been going on for over a month. I too doubt it's the supplement, especially that one. But, you never know. If you have a doc educated in supplements (not all are) s/he may know. In the meanwhile,some things to consider:
1. You might be overtraining on a small injury. Evaluate your high-impact work-outs, as well as deep squats with weights. My knees get sore from time-to-time, and I will cut out road-runs for a few weeks, or substitute an extra spin class instead of a step night.
2. lower your step height for awhile.
3. How old are your shoes? More than 6 months, that could be the culprit.
4. Consider a chiropracter or good massage. You may just be literally out-of-joint.
5. Keep your joints WARM before and after work-outs, especially in the cold weather.
6. Are stretching out post-workout?
You are right, as we age things start poppin' and crackin.' It's not usually something to worry about, but you have to adjust your workouts as time goes on. If you have a choice, try to see an internist, sports medicine, or bone specialist. The GPs don't always have the best training with sports injuries.
Obviously, its preferable if you can check with the doctor if this has been going on for over a month. I too doubt it's the supplement, especially that one. But, you never know. If you have a doc educated in supplements (not all are) s/he may know. In the meanwhile,some things to consider:
1. You might be overtraining on a small injury. Evaluate your high-impact work-outs, as well as deep squats with weights. My knees get sore from time-to-time, and I will cut out road-runs for a few weeks, or substitute an extra spin class instead of a step night.
2. lower your step height for awhile.
3. How old are your shoes? More than 6 months, that could be the culprit.
4. Consider a chiropracter or good massage. You may just be literally out-of-joint.
5. Keep your joints WARM before and after work-outs, especially in the cold weather.
6. Are stretching out post-workout?
You are right, as we age things start poppin' and crackin.' It's not usually something to worry about, but you have to adjust your workouts as time goes on. If you have a choice, try to see an internist, sports medicine, or bone specialist. The GPs don't always have the best training with sports injuries.
Hey Joey, I think knee degeneration can also be inherited too, there is some good advice above. I started taking the GC about three weeks ago after people here suggested it and it has made an incredible difference. I am still amazed. No, my knees are not bak to 100 % but I would say they have improved 50%, whcih means Ive gone from being able to only do step 3 times a week to six if I really wanted to (on the 6" step of course). Just like you, I was practically in tears when I thought I wouldnt be able to continue step workouts!!! I would DIE! The crackling you hear is called crepitus. Mine has decreased signifficantly now that I take GC. One other thought that comes to mind, what kind of step do you have. Do you have Cardio kicks?? It doesnt use a step and gives your knees a break while getting an awesome workout. Good luck! Judy
Joey, This, of course, is just my opinion but CardioKicks blows ctx Kickbox away!! I have them both, and while I like CTX, I absolutely LOVE Cardiokicks, its much more intense, is a much longer workout and lots of fun!! I really dont think you will be dissapointed, but be forewarned, there ARE intensity drills at the end, but I love them. Judy