Blog Post #3 Creepy Crepitus Sounding Knees

I've learned a few important things about taking care of my knees. First, they perform best when they are in proper alignment. Second, I should avoid excessively gripping my thighs, whether it's the inner or outer parts. And third, if I ever experience discomfort or a twinge while running or engaging in any activity, it's crucial to pause for a moment and assess my overall posture and movement to identify any contributing factors.

In my late 30s or early 40s, I noticed my knees started producing crepitus sounds, reminiscent of crinkling trash bags, especially when I walked up and down stairs. These sounds made me anxious. I wondered if I was depleting my cartilage or worsening my knees by running. In an attempt to address this, I switched to swimming for a year, but the crepitus sounds persisted, although they weren't accompanied by pain. This led me to delve deeper into investigating and reflecting on my condition.

It's important to understand that joint noises can occur in both healthy and not-so-healthy joints. While they can be associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, these sounds are not inherently harmful. The primary concern is the fear they provoke, which can lead to reduced physical activity and less impactful exercise, ironically potentially causing more harm in the long run. In essence, the fear of joint noises is the true issue here.

Regular exercise and proper joint usage can strengthen cartilage, but it's crucial to pay attention to your form and technique during exercises. If you experience pain or tension, it's a sign that something is out of alignment. Instead of quitting the activity altogether, consider modifying it by adjusting intensity, speed, duration, or direction. Such symptoms could also indicate surrounding muscle tightness, contributing to snapping sounds during movement.

For more insights and research on the significance of joint noises, you can refer to articles such as those from NY Times if you're a runner or walker. Or, check out this informative articleT These articles resonated with my personal experience, as if they were reading my thoughts. I'm now approaching 50, and I continue to run 3-4 days a week, covering distances ranging from 2.8 to 6 miles in each run.

If joint sounds persist and don't feel right, it's advisable to consult a doctor and then consider seeking guidance from an Alexander technique (AT) instructor for personalized advice in understanding and addressing the issue.

In summary, don't let joint noises discourage you from staying active. However, always use common sense if something doesn't feel right. Stay attuned to your body's signals, release any fear, and prioritize maintaining joint health by paying attention to how you use your body.