Dealing with aches, pains

Q: Although I have been active for many years, occasionally my knees hurt, my back aches and, despite years of exercise, I still seem to get sore. I thought exercise and eating properly were supposed to prevent all of these ailments. Is there a different type of exercise I should do, or is this par for the course?

A: I commend you for remaining active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Exercise and proper nutrition will help keep your body healthy; however, exercise cannot cure or prevent all medical conditions and ailments.

If certain aches and pains continue to escalate, consult your physician to rule out an injury or serious medical condition. It is important not to ignore signs of pain and discomfort, as they may be an indication of a condition that needs a doctor’s care.

•Once cleared by your physician, it’s time to look at your daily activities and your weekly exercise routine to help identify the possible causes of your aches and pains.

•Check your workout program and go through the correct technique for the exercises you are completing.

•Excessive squatting, improper technique when performing exercises such as lunges, and incorrect weight loads can contribute to overloading joints and making them sore. Ask a fitness professional for the proper exercise workloads and techniques to make sure you’re exercising safely and not placing yourself at risk for injury.

•Next, evaluate your daily activities. Do you sit all day at work or in the car? Are you standing for hours at time? Are you required to lift, pull or push heavy objects? Answering these questions and others like them can help pinpoint non-exercise activities that could be contributing to your aches and pains.

•Monitor your posture while completing those activities. Sitting slouched in a chair at work or in the car, lifting heavy objects without the proper muscular support, and excessive movements that place your joints at risk can all promote poor posture. Remember when possible to maintain strong posture through your back, shoulders, neck and head.

•Continue to take care of yourself by staying active, exercising and eating right. Your body will appreciate your keeping it strong.