Richard Simmons hasn’t been seen out in public since January of this year, sparking concern about his overall wellbeing. Simmons has addressed the speculation by blaming his absence on a bum knee.

Richard Simmons Knee Injury

Simmons took to Facebook Thursday, writing, “I am so touched by the outpouring of love and concern I have received today. I have had a tough time dealing with this injury, as it is keeping me from doing what I truly love to do and that is to teach classes around the world. Make sure you keep Sweatin’!”

 

Earlier in the week, reports suggested that Simmons had fallen into a deep depression because of the combined devastation of a workout-sidelining  injury and the death of his beloved dog Hattie. Not long after his last public appearance in January, Hattie, who Simmons thought of as his child, passed away at 17, according to TMZ.

As for his knee trouble, the fitness guru reportedly has a fear of going under the knife for a knee replacement. Four years ago, he finally agreed to have his right knee replaced – 10 years after the surgery was first suggested. Since he started having trouble with his left knee, he’s allegedly tried a number of less invasive remedies, including stem cell and red blood platelet therapy.

Simmons’ manager Michael Catalano confirmed that Simmons had been trying to recover from a “knee injury for the last several months” to People magazine. There’s no word on whether or not Simmons will be undergoing a second knee replacement to get back to running workout classes.