DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I enjoy an active lifestyle, from gardening to playing golf, cross-country skiing and participating in water fitness. I also walk daily. My knees have begun to bother me, and I am noticing some other aches and pains. I don't want to have to cut back on the activities I love. What can I do to reduce joint issues and cope with joint pain?
ANSWER: Joint pain affects people at all stages of life from student athletes to seniors. Pain can be a big barrier to not only maintaining a regular exercise program, but also getting started.
Recognizing how important physical activity is in your life, I recommend these four strategies to help keep you active: