Expert: Daphne E Brown MS CPRP - 6/16/2005

Question
I am 54 yrs old.My weight is 150.I am 5'7". I have been exercising approx 5 times a week for 20 years.A large part of that was elliptical machines and bikes but also weight training.After I fell in the gym in December I was diagnosed with severe arthritis of the knee.I spent time in a brace and in bed then with a cane.As soon as I went back to the gym I used the elliptical machine for an extended period of time (1 hour was my usual time so I did 1 hour for 3 days in a row) and reinjured my knee.I was out from work again and took longer to recover.I have no meniscus left in my right knee and am trying to find an aerobic exercise that does not harm my knees.I am told by my doctor not to do too much on the elliptical machine or sitting bike or I will injure my knee again.I am desperate to find an aerobic exercise that will not hurt my knee. Can you help?  

Answer
*****Suggestions offered here may or may not help you in your particular situation. Please consult with your physician when adding or changing and exercise/nutrition regimen******

Jill,
I am so sorry that you have medical problems with your knee.  As many experts who work with patients with arthritis, your best bet is to exercise in the water.  Find a class that caters to people who have these types of injuries and/or arthritis.  Warm water is best to workout in.  

You definitely must follow your doctor's orders and not work out as much on the elliptical machine and bike.  Try a little walking and cross train---that means, using different modes of aerobic activity throughout the week.  Aquatics and swimming are probably your best bets at this time.  Unfortunately, most folks with arthritis and/or knee issues may have to live with pain during exercise for the rest of their lives.  go to this web site:

http://www.acefitness.org/fitfacts/fitfacts_display.cfm?itemid=22

Good luck and take care of yourself.  Hang in there.
Sincerely, Daphne