I am 17. Ever since I can remember, I have heard sounds while bending my knees (like when knuckles are cracked). Is this a symptom?
Scientists have still not worked out why a sound emanates from cracking our knuckles. Similarly, with the knees. There is a common misconception that any sound from a joint implies that they are getting worn out due to wear and tear, and that the sound is indicative of degenerative changes. It is not. Sometimes though, exercise may ease the sound. However, if the sound is accompanied by pain, do check with a doctor specialising in sports medicine or an orthopaedic surgeon.
How do I lose the fat around the waist, butt, and thighs? I walk around 1.5 to 3km daily.
Inch or fat loss is dependent on two factors: exercise and food intake. If you take in say, 1,500 calories a day, you need to burn those as well, if you are at the weight you should be for your height (ideal body weight). If you are overweight, then ‘calories in’ should be less than ‘calories out’ (calories you expend through daily movement, exercise, body functions such as digestion that also consume energy). Also, 1.5 to 3km is not enough. Do a brisk walk (where you are sweating) for about 5km, or at least 30 minutes, every day. In addition, strength training (using the weight of your body or external weights) will give you better results. An instructor may be able to help you with specific exercises for your waist, glutes and thighs. However, there is no such thing as spot reduction. So while you may be able to strengthen these parts and inch-loss will take place, just doing these will only help to a certain extent.
Dr Kannan Pugazhendi is a sports physician and fitness consultant with over two decades of experience
Nothing in this column is intended to be, and is not, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek independent advice from a licensed practitioner if you have any questions regarding a medical condition.
