Exercises to Focus On:
These strengthen muscles that help stabilize the knees and hips:
A. Hip Abductor & External Rotator Strengthening:
Clamshells
Side-lying leg raises
Monster walks with a resistance band
Standing hip abduction with band or cable
B. Glute and Core Strengthening:
Glute bridges
Bird-dogs
Dead bugs
Side planks
Hip thrusts
Functional Alignment Training:
Step-downs (focus on proper knee tracking)
Single-leg Romanian deadlifts
Wall sits with a ball between knees (helps improve tracking and alignment)
Exercises to Avoid or Modify:
To prevent further misalignment or injury:
Deep squats with knees collapsing inward (valgus collapse)
Jumping or plyometric exercises without good landing mechanics
High-impact running without proper form and foot support
Leg press with narrow foot placement
Arch Support:
Yes, foot mechanics affect knee alignment. Arch supports can help especially if you have flat feet or overpronation.
Choose supports by consulting a podiatrist or using a gait analysis to determine your arch type.
Wear them during most weight-bearing activities (walking, standing, exercising), especially if you notice improved knee comfort/alignment.
Daily use is okay, but ease in gradually and monitor comfort.
Lifestyle & Posture Tips:
Avoid prolonged sitting with knees turned inward (e.g., cross-legged)
Stretch tight muscles like the IT band, adductors, and hamstrings
Wear supportive shoes with stable soles
Consider yoga or Pilates to improve balance and posture
Do posture checks during exercises (use mirrors or videos)
Use foam rolling on tight fascia (quads, calves, TFL)
Answered2025-05-21 15:07:18
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