arthritic knee(s)

[Jeffd54]

Hello everyone.

I just joined and would like some advice. I am 42 years old and I am anxiously looking forward to starting a new traditional Okinawan karate class tomorrow night. I tried Tai Chi classes about a year ago but did not particularly care for the instructor (no problems with him however). I also took a few Tae Kwon Do classes in the past but quit as I could not continue to afford them. My point is that I am greatly interested in martial arts and truly want to get the most out of this new karate class that will be starting but I now have one arthritic knee and sometimes both bother me quite a bit. I have pain and stiffness and, as a result, am not sure I could kick with much force. So, I am wondering if it is foolish for me to think that I could do karate, thinking I could just "practice with/through the pain". What makes this karate class even better is that it is affordable. My sensei said that he is not in this to make money, but to spread the wisdom and benefits of martial arts. I have already discussed this with my sensei (that's so cool to be able to say "my sensei") and he suggested that I just do what I am able to--he did not discourage me nor advise me not to participate. I also take a prescription anti-inflammatory medicine for me knees. Thanks in advance, any advice/input is appreciated.

[De_Franza]

I've been in classes with 60 and 70 year olds, and the teachers didn't push them to unrealistic physical feats. If the teacher is worth anything, he won't be so much of a drill seargent as to force you to hurt yourself. (if he's worth anything, he will push you, however)

I'd say give it a try with full enthusiasm. The exercise will probably improve your knee's condition after a while.

In the short term, there's always ice after class (I loves my ice) and I've had great results with Chondroitin/Glucosamine/MSM (found 'em all in one pill from Trader Joe's that is very affordable (is it as good as the expensive one from the health food store? I dunno, but can't afford to find out either)) (I think this is covered in another thread somewhere so I won't go into it)

There are always knee braces that may help depending on what's exactly the problem, a consultation with a sports doctor would not be a bad idea. Doing nothing, avoiding exercise at all would be a bad idea, so I commend you on exploring Martial Arts.

Anyway, it's good to talk to your sensei about it, and if the knees flare up for a particular class, LET HIM KNOW BEFORE class. If you go into it with an open mind an 110% effort, focus and concentration, you can't help but benefit from class and improve rapidly.

Welcome aboard the crazy path of MA's!!! and welcome to Budoseek, I'm sure you won't find a more conscientious and helpful group on the net.

I do need to insist that you include your Full, Real Name in each and every post, as per the forum rules you agreed to when you signed up. The easiest way to do so is to access the "User CP" (near the upper left of the page) and add it to your 'signature'. If you need a hand with it, don't be shy to ask.
OSS!

[CosimoTe]

Jeff,

I'll echo what Bill has said. Glucosamine is showing great promise in the medical literature for the preservation of joints. What you may wish to find out is if your knees are actually arthritic or is there something else causing pain? If its arthritis, you basically can do what you can and not what you cant. I know thats not very insightful, but bone on bone contact is not reversible. Antiinflammatories, bracing, and ice are going to be your friends.
Okinawan karate systems are an excellent idea however. Classically speaking, the kicks in Okinawan karate are not high, the stances are generally not exaggeratedly low. I think that you can find your niche' here.
Ous!

[kmtsd]

Karate should help you maintain range of motion and activity level...but it does have a risk of increasing the progression of arthritis once you already have it.
My feeling is that activity is better for you than remaining sedentary. The benefits are greater than risk. Don't over do it and listen to your body. Becareful learning kicks in the beginning-new students tend to hyperextend their knees with round kicks and tend not to spin their supporting foot and hip over enough with side kicks... doing the kicks wrong will definitely make you sore.
Good luck and give it a go!

Family practice doc