Knee Osteoarthritis? Get Back on the Bike in Time for the Great Waterfront Trail Adventure

August 11^th to 17^th marks the 6^th anniversary of the Great Waterfront Trail Adventure along the shores of Lake Erie, a cycling event that covers 600kms in 7 days. This recreational cycling adventure gives participants the chance to enjoy the event at their own pace, taking time to enjoy the views, the local shopping, and the many other amenities along the bike route. Whether you are an avid cyclist or just want to get out there with some friends, enjoying a day on the trail, the Great Waterfront Trail Adventure is an amazing opportunity for all.

But what if you suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee? Events like this can lose their lustre and appeal when you think about the pain that can accompany them. Cycling can be very difficult for knee osteoarthritis sufferers, simply because of the repetition and pressure put on the knee. If you suffer from the symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee, including pain, stiffness, a decreased range of motion or muscle weakness and atrophy, then cycling can be extremely taxing.

So how can you prepare for the Great Waterfront Train Adventure, or any future cycling, if you suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee? Visiting a sports injury clinic which specializes in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis is a superb strategy for easing pain and becoming bike-friendly again.

What types of treatment should a sports injury clinic offer to help you deal with your knee osteoarthritis?

-        Physiotherapy: By working with a trained physiotherapist who can create your individual and customized treatment plan (using both cutting edge and traditional physiotherapy techniques) you can relieve the pain of knee osteoarthritis while restoring its function and increasing the knee's strength and flexibility.

-        Viscosupplementation: This method involves the injection of hyaluronic acid into the knee joint to help lubricate it and protect joint surfaces.  A naturally occurring substance in your body, this hyaluronic acid helps to decrease inflammation and relieve pain.

-        Custom Knee Bracing: By helping to stabilize the knee and redistribute weight evenly, custom knee bracing works to make cycling more comfortable. Rather than choosing a generic knee brace, having one custom made to fit your body makes it far more effective.

These treatments, whether performed individually or collectively, can offer you the relief you need while rebuilding and strengthening your knees. Don’t let knee osteoarthritis keep you from being out there enjoying your bike.

For more information about our knee osteoarthritis treatment program, contact Athletic Edge Sports Medicine by calling 416-800-0800 or visit www.aesm.ca.