Knee problems

emilygraves1989

I've lost 17 pounds so far, my starting weight being 320.
I know it's harder to do things being this big, but my left knee is giving me horrible issues. I already stopped trying to jog. I was doing squats wrong and I have corrected myself.

Is there a way to fix this problem or will it be this way until I'm lighter? It has been swollen, pops and grinds and has very limited range of motion. It does usually cause too much pain.

HutchA12

This is a doctor question.

vespiquenn

HutchA12 wrote: »

This is a doctor question.

This. We could speculate, but none of us will know for sure. Seeing a doctor would ensure that you are not causing more damage to it for taking too much on at once.

emilygraves1989

Ok, I will. I was just wondering if other people had experienced this.

sndrd49

They're right about the doctor, this isn't something you want to push. Why risk permanent damage. Lots of other ways to burn calories that are a lot easier on joints than running.

VintageFeline

Agree with seeing someone but also that you are probably just too heavy for running and squats. I had some knee issues starting at 220lbs with a fitness background and had to go low impact for a while and really pay attention to form. I have no problems now but if I wasn't as self aware body wise due to my past I could have set myself up for long term problems leaving it unaddressed.

emilygraves1989

Well yeah, I'm not really excited about running anyways lol I won't miss it.

I will get into see someone soon I'm just hoping I don't stall my weight loss.

beccahummel423

I had a lot of knee pain when I was around 300. When I got down to the low 200s, I was able to run a little, but it was still a lot of pressure on my joints. I wouldn't recommend running at 300 pounds, but that's just me. Walking is a great exercise!!

Hearts_2015

emilygraves1989 wrote: »

Well yeah, I'm not really excited about running anyways lol I won't miss it.

I will get into see someone soon I'm just hoping I don't stall my weight loss.

@emilygraves1989

Find something you love and you won't even think of it as exercise. If you don't enjoy running, Girl, quit the running! I just had a knee replacement in Oct and the other knee to be replaced in Feb, the description you shared of the popping, grinding, pain etc. are what I was dealing with.

DON'T risk your joints particularly on something you don't love and that isn't safe at your size (or any size frankly). I know some ppl on here share they run when they are 400 lbs but I've never seen a post back from them after that. ( there's numerous ppl that have began threads like that over time in excitement).

So many other fun choices to do ...is a pool available? I have a membership at the Y and love the pool workouts, running in the pool is awesome, nothing hurts, but it gives you a sense of freedom, walking in the pool, Pilates and yoga classes in the pool, so many other aqua classes, swimming if you enjoy that. That's where I started out 100 lbs ago and still LOVE the pool! I can't suggest the pool enough for ppl with joint issues or ppl that are heavier starting out, the last thing we want is injury when starting out. That's heart breaking and real set back on so many levels.

I doubt it will stall your weight loss, just eat in a deficit and be sure to check in with the doc and see if they can do an xray or simply describe what you did to us. But a doctor can better diagnosis you better any of us on the Internet.

Cheers & welcome to MFP and a new lifestyle!

Hearts_2015

Also check out all the awesome workouts on Youtube, you'll find something there that you'll enjoy, I'm sure.

Edit to add: Congrats on the 17 lbs loss!!!! Ice that knee Girl, it helps!!!

rainbowbow

I could have sworn you were the OP of the other thread I commented on... Hm... Anyways, here's what i think.

First of all, you need to see your doctor. Now. You need to make sure you haven't caused some serious damage to your knee and you need to ensure you're actually ready to start exercising. At your current size i most definitely would not recommend the type of exercises you seem to have been performing. Jogging? 30 Day Shred? Squatting?

So often, especially on MFP I see people blankly recommend heavy lifting or serious exercise to people. Sometimes you aren't ready to begin heavy lifting or even strenuous exercise yet. And that's totally okay. It's much better to build up a base and move on progressively than to try and workout in a style that doesn't fit your current needs and make crappy progress over time (or hurt yourself).

With your knee injury you are more at risk of re-injurying the knee, causing injury to the ankle, foot, and lower body. You also likely have postural problems as a result of this knee injury which cause cause it's own slew of injuries. These are really things you need to discuss with your doctor before just going in and winging it. You may only be able to perform very low impact exercise like walking, swimming, etc.

See your doc, get their opinion on whether it's safe to start exercising, and if so what you can/cannot do. They may be able to provide a Physical therapist of personal trainer as well.


p.s. you can still lose weight by simple controlling your calorie intake.

Hearts_2015

rainbowbow wrote: »

I could have sworn you were the OP of the other thread I commented on... Hm... Anyways, here's what i think.




p.s. you can still lose weight by simple controlling your calorie intake.

@rainbowbow I too recall a thread from yesterday about someone doing or wanting to do the 30 day shred at a heavier weight.. but I believe it was another member.

shadowfax_c11

I have a lot of knee trouble from old injuries. For me the biggest helps have been, regular visits to the chiropractor, a good joint supplement and losing weight. It also helps a great deal to make sure that your shoes are not overly worn. If you notice the soles wearing heavily on one side or one spot it is time to replace your shoes. Unbalanced feet put a lot of stress on the knees and other joints. Doing these things has significantly reduced my knee pain.

All of that said, I don't do any running or jumping. I am very careful about shocks on the joints and will likely never be able to do those things.

redbod

Go swimming!! Best way to burn calories and easier on the knees, i wasnt a keen swimmer but found some lessons and have been trying to do front crawl! I can cycle 30miles but loose more swimming for 30mins! X

kshama2001

VintageFeline wrote: »

Agree with seeing someone but also that you are probably just too heavy for running and squats. I had some knee issues starting at 220lbs with a fitness background and had to go low impact for a while and really pay attention to form. I have no problems now but if I wasn't as self aware body wise due to my past I could have set myself up for long term problems leaving it unaddressed.

Ya, due to my knees, I had to build up to walking three miles at a stretch over about six months, and that was with good shoes (Asics Gel) and only walking in the woods (as opposed to harder surfaces.)

I have to be extremely careful with squat-like movements in the gym. The leg sled is the only thing that works for me, and I cannot do it when I am also hiking and practicing yoga. My knee is ok with any two of the three, but not all three.

faurotann

I finally went to the doctor (orthopedic ) and he told me I need a knee replacement. No amount of physical therapy or weight loss will help it. It doesn't change my discomfort but it is definitely a comfort knowing what the problem is. Get an XRay

rosebarnalice

Knees don't like to be overstressed. Yes see a doctor. There might be a brace or wrap that will give you some support. Maybe also look for low - impact exercises like swimming, a stationary bike, or elliptical until your knees get stronger and your weight drops somewhat.

kshama2001

emilygraves1989 wrote: »

Well yeah, I'm not really excited about running anyways lol I won't miss it.

I will get into see someone soon I'm just hoping I don't stall my weight loss.

While there are many reasons to exercise, it's not actually needed for weight loss. You can obtain your calorie deficit in the kitchen.

I recommend not doing any squats, lunges, or medium-high impact activity until you are cleared by the doctor. Due to the way you described your knee issues in your OP, you may wish to avoid even low impact exercise like walking for a few weeks as well. Definitely never try to work through knee pain.

Here are the exercises my doctor gave me to strengthen the muscles around my knee:

emilygraves1989

Thanks so much everyone! There's a good chance I may be off work tomorrow due to snow so I may try to get an appointment then. Trust me I am hearing you about getting seen!

I have really been enjoying 30 day shred, however I definitely will not be switching out of level 1 for some time. I have modified all the moves I feel like put strain on my knees and don't even attempt lunges.

I appreciate the show of support and concern.

kshama2001

emilygraves1989 wrote: »

Thanks so much everyone! There's a good chance I may be off work tomorrow due to snow so I may try to get an appointment then. Trust me I am hearing you about getting seen!

I have really been enjoying 30 day shred, however I definitely will not be switching out of level 1 for some time. I have modified all the moves I feel like put strain on my knees and don't even attempt lunges.

I appreciate the show of support and concern.

Please let your doctor know you are doing 30DS (with modifications) to give him or her an opportunity to advise if you should take a break while your knee recovers.

Lizzypb88

Yes of course seeing a doctor if you're concerned, but as far as relating- yes I can.. I started at 270 and didn't exercise at first because at the high weight we are at, you can lose just by counting calories and drinking water- at first!- anyways I have tried exercising at 270 and my knees did bother me, my mom started at 300 and also had knee problems, it's a lot of weight on your knees, yet at the same time you need to get on your feet to lose the weight so it's a tough situation! If that's the case I suggest doing light exercise, something that isn't hard on your knees, even if it's a 10min walk every other day that's perfect!! It's hard when starting out, so I would say very slowly ease into exercise, in my opinion! Good luck!

ninerbuff

At your weight, chances are that it's from wear on the joints. Not uncommon for people who are very overweight or obese. See an orthopedist to see what may be the issue. Also, I wouldn't recommend you doing 30 day shred as it may be too advanced for now. Walking is normally what I have my clients do to start. That and a CONSISTENT calorie deficit.

A.C.E. Certified Personal and Group Fitness Trainer
IDEA Fitness member
Kickboxing Certified Instructor
Been in fitness for 30 years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition

VintageFeline

kshama2001 wrote: »

VintageFeline wrote: »

Agree with seeing someone but also that you are probably just too heavy for running and squats. I had some knee issues starting at 220lbs with a fitness background and had to go low impact for a while and really pay attention to form. I have no problems now but if I wasn't as self aware body wise due to my past I could have set myself up for long term problems leaving it unaddressed.

Ya, due to my knees, I had to build up to walking three miles at a stretch over about six months, and that was with good shoes (Asics Gel) and only walking in the woods (as opposed to harder surfaces.)

I have to be extremely careful with squat-like movements in the gym. The leg sled is the only thing that works for me, and I cannot do it when I am also hiking and practicing yoga. My knee is ok with any two of the three, but not all three.

I say I have no issues now, I could if I'm not careful. I am a horror for sitting all bunched up on the sofa and then getting up with really painful knees and hips (oh yeah, I also have hip issues, thanks gymnastics and dance!). I try not to sit like that nearly as much now but it takes conscious effort. So important to learn our body's cues and adjust as necessary, including resting completely if necessary. If you haven't learned those cues yet then seek professional advice.

I have overstretched hip flexors, which I am working on compensating for now that I know that's the problem but I have to be very careful not to push too far distance wise when running because simply going a few minutes too long means strained hip flexors. Injury is no fun, long term damage and injury is even less fun.

lorrpb

Having gone from 301 to 171, I can attest that running AND walking ,and all exercise for that matter, get much easier and less painful as you lose weight, get stronger, and build endurance. However you do need to know your body, any limitations,

RodaRose

kshama2001 wrote: »

emilygraves1989 wrote: »

Well yeah, I'm not really excited about running anyways lol I won't miss it.

I will get into see someone soon I'm just hoping I don't stall my weight loss.

While there are many reasons to exercise, it's not actually needed for weight loss. You can obtain your calorie deficit in the kitchen.

I recommend not doing any squats, lunges, or medium-high impact activity until you are cleared by the doctor. Due to the way you described your knee issues in your OP, you may wish to avoid even low impact exercise like walking for a few weeks as well. Definitely never try to work through knee pain.

Here are the exercises my doctor gave me to strengthen the muscles around my knee:

^ Yes.
These are the ones my physical therapist gave me.

trjjoy

Running? Meh. I "only" weigh 71kg but running kills my knees. I agree with what some of the other people have said: do something else to burn calories. Find something you really enjoy.

RodaRose

Consider upper body weight lifting. Swimming. On youtube look for "chair boxing."

ivvassileva

I had issues with my right knee for some years and I finally went to a doctor for it - highly recommended! He advised me on what supplements to take for it and what type of exercises to do. Ater that at the gym I asked the staff what to do and they also gave me some good advise.
I hope everything turns out to be fine with you

wrenak

My highest weight ever was 272. My painful joints is from arthritis... left knee, right elbow, and fingers/thumbs mainly. Weight loss and glucosamine/chondroitin has helped everything but my left knee. It's weird, 'cause I can go up stairs, walk, and jog with no pain. If I try to use a stationary bike, elliptical, a leg-raise weight machine, go down stairs, do lunges and such it hurts like nobody's business. I saw a pain doc on Friday. He's sending me for x-rays to see the extent of things and will then give me a cortisone shot and set me up for physical therapy. Hoping it helps. Good luck finding relief!

WendyLaubach

I wanted to put in my two cents about feeling discouraged when injury prevents some kinds of exercise: I've had two medical things crop up in the last two months that kept me from exercising, but I set my calories low enough to keep losing through both periods. It really can be done, and it wasn't as hard as I thought it would be. I found it much easier to be patient about waiting to get back to exercise when I knew that in the meantime there was no reason for my progress to stall. The lighter I am, the fewer problems I'll have with exercise and injury.

Hearts_2015

emilygraves1989 wrote: »

I've lost 17 pounds so far, my starting weight being 320.
I know it's harder to do things being this big, but my left knee is giving me horrible issues. I already stopped trying to jog. I was doing squats wrong and I have corrected myself.

Is there a way to fix this problem or will it be this way until I'm lighter? It has been swollen, pops and grinds and has very limited range of motion. It does usually cause too much pain.

@emilygraves1989 How did it go at the Dr. appt? Came across this thread and was thinking about you. I had my 2nd knee done a few weeks ago and it feels so good to move without pain. I was hoping he was able to help you out with suggestions on low impact workouts or others ideas.

Take care!