As the weather starts to get warm, Michiganders know it’s time to spend some time outside. Whether you're cleaning up your yard, preparing for garage sales, or just getting out to enjoy the weather, knee pain can change your plans in a heartbeat.
If you still want to enjoy some fresh air, here are some tips to being outside with knee pain.
- Pay Attention to Your Feet. Your choice in footwear may be impacting your knees and is important to consider when stepping outside. Choose shoes that reduce risk of slipping, and better choices include those with soft, rubber soles, such as tennis shoes that provide good support.
- Don’t be Afraid to Use a Device. Canes and hiking sticks can help provide support, if you’re walking on uneven surfaces. Make sure these are the right height for you (we can help you with the right fit!) so you can get outside comfortably.
- Look at the Ground You’re Walking On. Softer surfaces tend to be easier on your knees than hard surfaces. Choosing to walk on natural surface trails is going to feel better in the long run compared to walking on concrete or asphalt. If you are walking outside, make sure you keep your eyes out for any tripping hazards that could cause further injury!
- Participate in Low-Impact Activities. Low-impact activities can include biking, swimming, and walking. These activities put less stress on your knees and can be easy ways to stay active and get outside! If your knees hurt with certain activities, limit the motion that makes them most painful.
If you feel like your knee pain is limiting your ability to go outside, click here to download our free knee pain report for more tips on how to get rid of your knee pain!
Neil Sauer
Physical Therapist, Certified Health Coach and company owner Neil Sauer graduated from Saginaw Valley State University in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science. During that time he played four years of collegiate soccer.
Neil earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Central Michigan University in 2006.
He has taken continuing education courses for Stanley Paris manual therapy techniques and a Gary Gray Functional Training course. He has also taken selective functional movement assessment courses with the North American Sports Medical Institute (NASMI).
Neil’s treatment philosophy goes beyond reducing pain and restoring motion/mobility. He has a passion for health and wellness and for improving the quality of life of his clients, and works holistically with them to ensure their injuries do not reoccur and that his clients enjoy optimal functionality. He strives to help his patients live more active, mobile and healthy lives knowing that they don’t have to rely on pain medications, injections or surgery.
In his personal life, he is married and has two sons. During spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, spending time outdoors and leading an active and healthy life. Neil also likes to read as much as possible when he finds/makes time. He primarily reads books on leadership, business and special forces.
An avid exercise enthusiast, he continually works to improve his own health and wellness.
Latest posts by Neil Sauer (see all)
- 5 Ways To Ease Lower Back Pain During The Winter Months - November 21, 2024
- 3 Things That Could Be Making Your Knee Pain Worse - September 5, 2024
- Tips and Trails for Walking – Stop Knee and Leg Pain Before It Starts - July 1, 2024
