How to Keep Your Knees Healthy for Life
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Joint Health on August 29, 2025
Your Knees Do a Lot for You
From walking and climbing stairs to running, dancing, or kneeling in the garden, your knees are involved in almost every lower body movement you make. They’re built to be strong and resilient — but like any joint, they need the right care to stay healthy for the long haul.
At Reform Physical Therapy, we help patients protect their knees, recover from injury, and maintain mobility so they can keep doing the things they love for years to come.
Why Knee Health Matters
Your knees are the largest and most complex joints in your body. They absorb shock, support your weight, and allow you to bend, twist, and pivot. Over time, age, injuries, repetitive stress, and even lifestyle choices can affect their function.
Without proper care, knee problems can lead to:
- Chronic pain
- Reduced mobility
- Increased risk of falls
- Limitations in daily activities and sports
Tips for Lifelong Knee Health
1. Strengthen the Muscles Around Your Knees
Strong quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves help support the joint and absorb impact.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Even small amounts of extra weight put added stress on your knees with every step.
3. Prioritize Low-Impact Exercise
Activities like swimming, cycling, and walking protect your joints while keeping you active.
4. Stretch for Flexibility
Gentle stretching of the hips, hamstrings, and calves can improve knee alignment and reduce strain.
5. Wear Supportive Footwear
Proper shoes with good cushioning and arch support can improve alignment and reduce stress on the knees.
6. Listen to Your Body
If your knees ache during or after activity, don’t ignore it. Rest, modify your routine, and seek guidance if pain persists.
Image Suggestion:
PT showing patient knee strengthening exercises with resistance bands.
Alt Text: Physical therapist guiding patient through knee rehab exercise.
How Physical Therapy Helps Protect Your Knees
Physical therapy can:
- Correct movement patterns that stress the knees
- Strengthen supporting muscles for better stability
- Improve balance and coordination
- Address old injuries before they cause new problems
- Teach safe exercise techniques for long-term joint health
Even if you’re not currently in pain, a preventative PT program can help you keep your knees strong and mobile for decades.
When to See a Physical Therapist
Schedule a professional evaluation if you notice:
- Persistent pain or swelling
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations
- Knees “giving out” or feeling unstable
- Trouble bending, straightening, or bearing weight
Keep Moving, Keep Living
Your knees are the foundation for so much of your daily life. Taking steps to care for them now can help you stay active, independent, and pain-free well into the future.
Protect Your Knees Today
Take the first step toward stronger, healthier knees. Contact Reform Physical Therapy to schedule your knee health evaluation, or visit one of our Southern Maine locations to learn how our preventative programs can keep you active for years to come.