LISTEN TO THE DISCUSSION HERE.
In Episode 5 of GRUFFtalk: How to Age Better, we talk about knees. Yep, knees.
Knee health is something that affects many people especially after age 45. I know I’m not alone dealing with a recent knee issue. Dr. Jordan Metzl joined me to explain how we can fix our knees and keep them healthy as we age.
With a practice of more than 20,000 patients, Dr. Metzl is widely known for his passion for sports medicine and fitness. In addition to his busy medical practices in New York City and Stamford, Connecticut, Dr. Metzl is the author of the bestselling titles Running Strong, The Exercise Cure, and Athlete’s Book of Home Remedies.
He created the Ironstrength Workout, a functional fitness program for improved performance and injury prevention that he teaches in fitness venues throughout the country. The workout is featured free online where it has been performed by more than 9 million athletes around the world.
Here are some of the questions I asked Dr. Metzl during our chat. But to hear all his tips, listen here.
Are knees the most problematic for your patients?
Dr. Metzl explains that all of his patients (the elite athletes and the rest of us) want to be active. They want to be able to move without pain. It’s not always age-related and Dr. Metzl reminds us that knee health is related to overall well-being.
Is surgery the best option?
Hear about all the options, including surgery. Dr. Metzl explains why surgery may be a good option for some, and why other treatments can best help others. Related to knee health is muscle strength, reduced weight, and mobility training.
He also shares some great exercises that you can do at home without any special equipment.
What types of treatments are best?
The treatment protocol that Dr. Metzl prescribed for me worked really well. It included hyaluronic acid and PRP (platelet-rich plasma) along with strengthening exercises. He explains who that can help (and why) and other treatment options that may work better depending on the nature of your knee problem.
TRX 100 is that a thing?
Dr. Metzl shares his thoughts on proven protocols and new options that may (and may not) be researched with medical-evidence recommendations.
What’s the best type of shoe for running/walking/working out?
Everyone is built differently so shoes that work for one, may harm others. Dr. Metzl recommends finding the right shoe depending on gait and knee and hip health. The good news: there are lots of options and orthotics available so everyone can find the right shoe for them.
“People are the best athletes when they are doing something they love.”
– Dr. Jordan Metz.
3 Takeaways:
- You don’t have to live with knee pain. Don’t give up. Investigate.
- Moving every day is one of the best forms of preventive health.
- The stronger the muscles are around your knees the better you will feel.
Links to Some Great Resources We Discussed:
