You put a lot of stress on your hip flexors when you sprint or kick. Thatâs why athletes, especially runners, soccer players, and martial artists, are especially prone to hip flexor injuries that result in hip flexor pain. Hip flexor pain is usually felt in the upper groin region, where the thigh meets the pelvis. To avoid hip flexor pain, you should pay more attention to these muscles, Dr. Siegrist explains. When you are seated, your knees are bent and your hip muscles are flexed and often tighten up or become shortened.
Walking and bicycling are good exercises for bad knees because they aren't high-impact. If you belong to a gym, the elliptical machine is another good option; the machine has pedals instead of a flat, treadmill-like surface and allows you to simulate running and walking without the impact on the joints.
If you take up cycling, have your bike correctly fitted. Riding with your seat too high, low, forward, or back can cause imbalances and instability that can lead to knee pain over time. Ride in a gear that allows you to keep your rpms between 70 and 100 â pedaling slower with more resistance may cause knee pain. Squat and lunge for lifelong health.