Is there anyone out there who is practicing JKD with an arthritic knee? My doctor has taken x-rays of my left knee and gave me an injection for the joint today. He states that it has osteoarthritis in advanced stages. In addition, he also says I'm a candidate for knee replacement but doesn't want to pursue that route due to me being only 40 years old. It would be a bummer if I have to give up JKD as I've been interested in martial arts for most of my life. The doctor is concerned about any involvement in martial arts after a knee replacment is performed but says that it is ok to pursue it beforehand...but with caution.

The work is hard but fun with Sifu Lance Webb and his teachers. Any input from those with similar challenges is helpful. Thank you.

David

Maybe you can ask your doctor if you can take glucosamine, as well as Vitamin D (helps to protect bone & joint health)

A frat brother of mine has the same problems (due to him playing football in High School) and he is only 39.

He told me he can take martial arts, however he has to focus on the upper body tools.

I will pray for you.

In my opinion I (and I am no medical expert) I don't think that should cause you give up martial arts, you just might have to make martial arts work for you.

Beauty of JKD huh?

David,

If it really is arthritis go find a good rhumatologist who specializes in this. There are specific meds along with rehap today that can potentially help alot.

I was hit by a car in college and now have arthritis in my back along with some compression fractures. You really have two choices, listen to your body but work hard or give up. I figure I am in pain either way so I might as well enjoy myself and glove up. I see kendra at shawnee mission who does deep tissue message which really helps control my pain levels without meds.

Keep looking for potential solutions. If they don't cpmpletely work it will take your mind off the pain somewhat. I think the exercise itself helps alot.

Have a nice weekend.

Jim

I have had ACL replacements on both knees. 4 operations on my left knee and 2 on my right knee. At this point no flying side kicks lol. I also have had a ligiment replacement done on my shoulder. I have found that these supliments help. Glycocimine Sulfate, Chrondrotin, Alfalfa, MSM, Calcium & Magnesium 2:1 Ratio. Basically I train around my injuries and just do what I can do. I also had to modify some things so that I could do them.. I still train.

All the best to you

Joe

Fish Oil and Glucosamine every day for me.
Fish Oil is an anti inflammatory among other things.

You can (and should) modify your techniques and strategies to FIT YOU.
I have a troublesome Right Shoulder. So I learned how to punch hard with my Left Lead.
I have some lower back trouble so I don't do any Spin Kicks.