Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting people of all ages, from athletes dealing with overuse injuries to older adults managing arthritis. While knee pain can significantly impact daily life, it doesn't automatically mean surgery is the next step. "You don't just necessarily go from 'my knee hurts' to having surgery," said Turner. Many patients benefit from conservative treatments such as physical therapy, targeted strengthening, and activity modification to reduce pain, improve function, and stay active.

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Bunion exercises can be very effective at relieving pain and restoring your big toe’s mobility, but they aren’t something you should rush into. “Due to the complexity of performing the exercises correctly, someone with bunions should have a few sessions with a professional to learn how to perform the exercises with accuracy,” Turner explained.

Similarly, Turner recommends being evaluated by a qualified orthopedic surgeon or podiatrist. That’s because bunions affect everyone differently. For some people, they cause minor pain, but for others, they increase the risk of open wounds and infection. That’s particularly true if you have diabetes or peripheral vascular disease, both of which slow blood flow to the feet.

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A slant board is a wedge-shaped device that you stand on to perform stretches or strength moves. They can be made from various materials, including wood, foam, rubber, or stainless steel. Slant boards are either at a fixed angle or adjustable, meaning you can change the angle.

“I love slant boards,” said Turner. Not only does this device help you achieve deeper stretches compared to on-the-ground exercises, it’s also really effective for dialing up the intensity of certain strength moves.

Turner described calf stretching as a “preventative measure” and says it’s especially important for long-distance runners and folks who run on their toes, as their calves are likely extra tight. That said, all runners should stretch their calves “pretty much every day,” he said. Too-tight calves can cause you to have an early heel lift when you’re running or walking, explained Turner. As a result, forces that your feet and ankles should absorb travel upward into the knees, hips, and low back, sometimes triggering pain in these areas, he said.

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