My Journey Getting out of Knee Pain (Pt 2)

My knees didn’t hurt anymore, but I still felt this “tightness…”

A couple of weeks ago I was sharing my story about how I managed to get out of the knee pain that I thought I was developing due to ageing (in my 30s!)  

You can check out that post here; in summary I learnt to wake-up my sleepy glutes and build strength in my pelvic musculature with exercises such as squats, lunges and hip bridges.

I also discuss another of my passions - the deeper layers of understanding we discover about our own body, the more we listen and learn, So do check it out!

The next piece of the puzzle fell into place when I discovered Biomechanics Education.

Although I’d stopped feeling tension in my knees, I was still experiencing a “tightness” or “pull” when I crouched down to get in the fridge or did level changes in dance.

Through studying with Rachel France-Thompson and Tom Waldron I learnt to use Muscle Energy Techniques - gentle, easy, quick and very effective exercises designed to relax and release muscles that may be stuck in spasm. These could then be combined with the strength and conditioning work I was already doing to greater effect.

Long-standing followers have heard me talk about METs many times, but If you’re new here, check out this post - “WTF are Muscle Energy Techniques and why you should do them.”

The first time I did the 4 Sign MET, targeting the deep hip rotators (have you heard about the Piriformis?) I noticed an immediate release in my hips. Gradually over the weeks I began to incorporate this system into my regular practice and I found that the tightness in my legs when I squatted down had melted away.

It’s a continuing work in progress; some of the exercises have become a staple in my daily routine and others I use as and when I need them. I’m learning how to change and develop what I do as I discover deeper layers of understanding in my own body.

I’ve been using this system with all my clients too and have been delighted to find how effective it is for so many people:

"I was pleased with the reduction of pain and improvements in the range of movement I have.”

“... really helpful for relaxing my hips using the special techniques, and I saw significant improvements in my 4/4 and 3/4 shimmies in a short period of time.”

“... these exercises have helped me to continue to dance and not be injured.”

Do you need this in your life? 

I have a couple of spots open for 1:1 clients right now. Comment “tell me more” below or shoot me an email here for more info.

I would love to hear from anyone who has worked with me and experienced the benefit of these techniques - please share your experiences below!