Is Running Bad For Your Knees?
A common misconception we've had for years is that running is bad for our knees. You always hear people say it's going to put wear and tear on your knees and your joints. When in actuality, it's the opposite!
There's study after study showing that running does not contribute to knee arthritis. If you don't believe me I'll add a link to some of those studies at the end of this blog. Most studies even show that runners have less knee arthritis than non-runners and sedentary people.
So what does this mean?
It means that for over 100 years we've looked at arthritis the wrong way. Yes, your old chiropractor, personal trainer, physical therapist, gym coach, family members, etc. lied to you.
Arthritis is NOT wear and tear. It's the lack of use of those joints that causes arthritis.
Now you might be saying, "But Andrew, when I run I get knee pain". I would reply by saying first off, pain does not equal damage. Secondly, we would need to break down your training and your programming. If you're doing too much too fast after doing not enough for too long then odds are you're going to get some pain. That's where most of the pain with running or any activity stems from. Some other circumstances could apply but that's a topic for another blog.
To build off that, one of my favorite sayings is "It's not the load that breaks you down. It's the load you aren't prepared for." To translate this to running it's exactly how it sounds. It's not the running that's the problem. It's the running and training that you aren't prepared for that will cause you pain.
If you're interested in working with me, go to resiliencechiro.janeapp.com to schedule a visit or email me at resiliencechiro@gmail.com. If you're in the Charlotte area I do in-person appointments but if you aren't I also do virtual appointments!
Until next time,
Dr. Andrew Schneider DC, ATC
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