Shaolin White Crane
Careful of those knees. I've been dealing with knee pain for 11 years, then I had a stupid attack and started training in Southern Shaolin
First off, I'd get some repeated xrays, perhaps even an MRI. Let the western medicine turds (no offense to you, of course) tell you what they can see, then take that knowledge to your local accupressurist or accupuncturist.
From personal experience, I'd suggest the former. I got more out of it; ie, learned how to massage my own knees, and learned about herbal therapy. There is no quick fix, so long as you are suffering from inflamation, you pretty much always will. You can either deal with it, or let them cut you up and take your chances.
At this stage, I pretty much deal with it. I've been prescribed Celebrex, but I flat out refuse to take it. Whenever I have time, I make a tea from fresh ginger and drink it 3x daily. This is an excellent anti-inflamatory, and makes you feel good as well. I also use a homemade Tiger balm recipe made from:
Vicks vapor rub
vasoline
Cayenne pepper (hotter the better)
MSM
Eucalyptus Oil
Melt the ingredients together in a boiler. Pour into a glass jar and allow to cool. I use this daily, esp before training.
As far as strengthening, I hold a modified "Slide Horse stance" for 20-30 mins per day, or if at any time I have to be standing for a long time. Bring knees together and bend about 35-45 degrees. Circulate chi and focus on your knees.
Hope it helps! Good luck!
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Copyright 2003 - African Tiger Inc., a Nevada yada yada yada. Any reproduction...oh, to hell with that round kick, my knees are killing me. How about a nice Iron Palm to the nuts, sonny?