Nov 04, 2025

8 exercises to relieve knee pain

Aanya Mehta

Clam Shells

Lie on your side with knees bent. Open and close your top knee like a clamshell. Strengthens hip muscles that support the knees.

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Hamstring Curls

Stand and bend your knees to bring your heels toward your glutes. Great for building support in the back of your thighs.

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Calf Raises

Stand tall and lift your heels off the floor, balancing on your toes. Helps strengthen calves and improve ankle and knee alignment.

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Quad Sets

Sit with your leg straight and tighten your thigh muscles, pressing the knee down. A simple way to activate quads after injury or surgery.

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Seated Leg Extensions

Sit on a chair and slowly extend one leg until straight, then lower. Improves strength and flexibility in the front thigh muscles.

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Step Ups

Use a sturdy step or platform. Step up and down slowly, alternating legs. Builds strength and stability around the knees.

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Straight Leg Raises

Lie flat on your back and lift one leg slowly while keeping it straight. Strengthens the quadriceps without stressing the knee joint.

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Walll Sits

Slide down a wall until your knees are bent at about 90°. Hold for 20–30 seconds. Strengthens quads and improves endurance.

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8 exercises to manage chronic pain