How to minimize knee stress

Aztec · Post by **Aztec** » March 9th, 2009, 5:23 pm

I'm new to this stuff. Just tried out the C2 this weekend. As an injured cyclist/triathlete, I'm trying to do something difficult while my knee recovers (chondromalacia patella).

Unfortunately, everything bothers the knee. But at least rowing is a lot shorter activity than riding and running, etc.

How do I minimize the knee stress? Raise the foot position or lower it? Don't actually bend my knees much? I tried searching for half-pulls, etc., and didn't find anything.

Any help appreciated.

marvy1 · Post by **marvy1** » March 9th, 2009, 10:37 pm

I ruptured my quadriceps tendon in my left leg this past Sept 12, 2008. I stayed off the rower for a couple of months until I cut bend my knee to about 60 degrees.

When I started rowing again, I was very gentle on the knee. I started with half pulls and even did some pulls staying stationary (just using the arms). Then I would try some rowing with one leg (that is letting the bad leg just trail along off the foot supports). And yes, you could try to lower the foot position.

But the best advise is to ask your physical therapist or doctor. I didn't attempt any rowing until I received their OK.

As of this date, I am up to full speed again. I have some residual stiffness from the original injury but I am optimistic it will get better with time and exercise.

Hope this helps - MarvinH

Aztec · Post by **Aztec** » March 10th, 2009, 1:44 pm

I assume half-pulls mean you just shorten your leg range of motion?

I'm not sure whether lowering the foot position reduces the knee bend, all things constant.

FWIW, I am working with a PT, but he doesn't necessarily have an opinion on this.

marvy1 · Post by **marvy1** » March 10th, 2009, 2:29 pm

Aztec wrote:I assume half-pulls mean you just shorten your leg range of motion?

FWIW, I am working with a PT, but he doesn't necessarily have an opinion on this.

Yes. A half pull would shorten your range of motion.

If your PT doesn't have an opinion, just take it easy on the rower at the beginning.

Marvinh

Montanaandy · Post by **Montanaandy** » March 10th, 2009, 4:49 pm

I have a wonky left knee (two scopes) & a resurfaced hip. I only row strapless. You don't mention whether you row strapless but if you don't you should at least try it. I found that there is much less stress/torque placed upon my operated knee when I am not strapped in.

Aztec · Post by **Aztec** » March 10th, 2009, 10:27 pm

I strap in. Interesting idea. Tonight I tried lowering the footrest all the way, and I think that helps reduce the knee angle, which is a major issue for me.

Did :20 on / :10 off, 12 rounds. Holy moley, #s 7+ get tough! I couldn't believe the way my pace dropped off.

So far, the knee seems only slightly bothered. I hope that remains the case, because I'd like to be able to so SOMETHING intense while it hopefully improves...

Citroen · Post by **Citroen** » March 11th, 2009, 4:22 pm

Aztec wrote:Tonight I tried lowering the footrest all the way, and I think that helps reduce the knee angle, which is a major issue for me.

The normal way to set the footplates is either a) strap goes over where your shoe (or foot if rowing in socks) naturally bends or b) put a hand flat on the monorail and your thumb should be level with your ankle bone.

I normally have my footstretchers in the third whole from the top (with trainers) or fifth hole (with socks).

You don't want them too low or you'll over compress your ankles at the the catch by going shins over vertical.

fishbust · Post by **fishbust** » March 16th, 2009, 4:20 pm

To minimize stress, lower the footboards and never go into the catch putting the shins past vertical and only very slightly lift your heels.

You can get a seat stop from Piantedosi to keep you from going to far forward until it becomes natural.

http://www.row-right.com/slideguide.html

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