Question:
Any advice on exercise for folks with knee problems?

I have knees that dislocate frequently and I was hoping someon out there could give me some ideas on exercises that put next to no stress on knees. Walking is a problem for me. I need to do some kind of exercise to help me lose the weight post/op which will be after surgery 12/7. I appreciate any ideas you can give me. Thanks, Julie    — Julie M. (posted on November 30, 1999)

December 1, 1999
Hi Julie: Boy have you come to the right person. Knee problems is my speciality. My name is Paula, and I am 40 years old, and I no longer have a Left knee at all, my leg is totally fused. (Accident five years ago). Before the fusion of my leg, I had three years of Physical therapy. The best therapy or exercise you could ever dream of would be in a swimming pool. If you do not have your own pool, try joining a gym or the YMCA. You are weightless in the water, and there are many exercises that you are able to do in the pool that can help you. Check with your doctor, and he should be able to give you a list of exercises that you will be able to do in the water, if not, ask him to send you to a Physical Therapist, (you should only need one session) to get some help with the exercises. Since you have a knee problem, this is your best hope. I am not a doctor, but when it comes to leg and knee problems, I have been there. Good luck in your exercise. I have had my surgery 7 months ago, and I have lost 117 pounds now, and I can only do exercises in the pool, (Im in a wheelchair for life now). You are welcome to write me. My e-mail address is: [email protected]
   — Paula D.

February 20, 2001
Well, I am also good at this sort of thing. The cartilage in both of my knees are tearing and probably will need some kind of surgery to repair it when I get older. So, I suggest either wear a knee brace or start going to physical therapy about twice a week. Good luck!!
   — Nicole0105