In sports medicine, the knees are one of the most affected body parts in various sports. While some strain builds muscle and endurance, too much can negatively impact the joints. If you are an athlete, you have probably experienced pain from too much stress on the joints at some point or another. Over time, the occasional pain in your knee can turn into chronic knee problems that require attention from a sports medicine professional. Here are five activities that cause a lot of impact on the knees. 

What Sports Impact Knees the Most?

1. Running

Long-distance running is not the most strenuous sport for the knees, but over time the repetitive motion can result in pain. The best way to avoid excessive strain on the knees as a runner is to do cross-training a couple of times a week instead. For example, swimming or cycling help give the knees a break.

2. Tennis

If you play tennis, you know it requires quick, impactful sprints and pivots. The knees get twisted and pounded during the game, and you may not even notice it hurts until after it's over. Wearing the right shoes and trying not to play too hard every day can lessen the strain.

3. Soccer

Like in tennis, soccer sometimes requires you to switch direction faster than the knees can handle. Constantly changing direction and kicking the ball can result in overextension of the knees. The best way to prepare the body for these difficult movements is conditioning to strengthen the muscles. 

4. Basketball

In basketball, players often jump, fall, and run into each other. Plus, they are constantly switching directions, even faster than in soccer. Consider alternatives, such as leagues with no-contact basketball, to drastically decrease the risk of knee injury.

If you are dealing with a knee injury and need sports medicine, reach out to AVORS Medical Group in Lancaster, CA. They are dedicated to keeping athletes on their feet and pain-free. Their hard-working providers offer orthopedic care, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and more. Call (661) 726-5005 to schedule an appointment, and visit them online to learn more about their services.