The Big Picture: Dr. Shelandra Bell, Family Medicine. says, “Stronger thighs mean stronger knees!”
Doctor’s Expert Insights About Knee Health in Georgia
Know this: “This research continues to build on the idea that you can take preventative steps to improve your health outcomes! Boosting your strength in your thighs has been shown to be an effective way to delay the need for knee replacement! The quadriceps, the thigh’s powerhouse, play a key role in mobility and movement. If you are able to do so, engaging in exercises like squats and lunges can build stronger thigh muscles. This simple, proactive approach can significantly reduce the likelihood of knee surgery, benefiting anyone, especially those at risk for osteoarthritis. Another benefit of stronger thighs? You reduce your fall risk!” Dr. Adriana Davis, Family Medicine.
Beyond the news: Studies like this highlight the importance of preventative care–especially the role of regular exercise in maintaining good joint health.
Health Alert for Atlanta
Key Drivers in DeKalb County:
The study, presented at a meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), reveals a significant association between strong thigh muscles and a reduced likelihood of needing total knee replacement surgery.
The study found that “larger extensor muscle groups — relative to hamstring muscle groups — are significantly associated with lower odds of total knee replacement surgery in two to four years.”
Key Resource: The Silver Sneakers website has a page featuring home exercise options to strengthen your thigh muscles. (Visit Here)
What they’re saying: “The study findings have implications for both the interpretation of imaging exams and clinical management. The results suggest that training programs that strengthen the quadriceps in relation to the hamstrings may be beneficial.”
“Although we presume that overall muscle volume is important as a surrogate marker for muscle strength, the ratio, hence the balance, between extensor and…
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