Runners - Knee problem!

So about two weeks ago i ran 5 miles and during the last mile i felt a pain in my right knee, on the left side of the knee cap. I stayed off of it for four days and then ran a 5 mile race. I had a little bit of pain at the beginning of the race, but then it went away (or i just got numb). Then i stayed off of it for 7 days, and then ran about 2 miles. I felt a little bit of pain the next day, but not much. Then the next day i run almost 3 miles, but the pain came back towards the end of the run. Today, I can't even run two steps because of the pain. I've tried 3 different types of braces this week, i've iced it several times. I'm going to try and see a doctor on Monday, but i'm so upset that i can't run today, and it feels like its never going to go away. Anyone have a similar experience with this? Does it eventually go away? How long am i supposed to stay off of it? I was crying this morning as I limped home, not because of the pain, but because i've come so far with running and it would just kill me to have to stop. Sorry this is so long!

Re: Runners - Knee problem!

Don't worry, Most likely you won't have to stop running!
I've had so many knee problems and pains and I had to walk with a walker for a while (yes a walker & I'm in my 20s)! But it got better and I run again now.
The doctor can do an MRI and see how serious the problem is, could be something really simple. I had a bunch of issues... bursitis & my MRI showed some cartilage breakdown in my knees, but there weren't any tears of anything and the doctor said I could still run, once the pain subsided. Within a few weeks I was back at it.
Definitely see an orthopedist and find out what the issue is!!!!!
Good luck & feel better

Re: Runners - Knee problem!

Thank you, I'm gonna see someone on Monday!

Re: Runners - Knee problem!

DH says that's the pain that he feels...not to alarm you, but he has a torn miniscus (MRI tells you)

it's bearable for him right now (he wants to wait until after golf season), but I don't think he could run on it.


I just spoke to someone that had it repaired and he said that his was really bad, but ran a race 7 weeks later and has done a bunch of marathons after it was done. He also said that his mother's wasn't as bad, but it took her longer to recover...since she wasn't in shape - so that's another thing you have going for you.

Re: Runners - Knee problem!

Good luck at the doctor Monday!

If it's any consilation, I've had a torn meniscus in my left knee since 1997 and I have yet to do anything about.

The most I've run is a half marathon but soon after that when marathon training I started getting awful shooting pains in my right knee.

I took some time off from running and tried to cross train a bit and I think that helped. I am now running again (although have had very major detraining) and so far luckily have had no shooting pains.

Re: Runners - Knee problem!

Hmm, sounds like it could be IT band?? Rest up and let us know the outcome hun!

Re: Runners - Knee problem!

So I was finally able to see a doctor today and luckily its nothing serious. Basically he said that I need to strengthen my quadricep muscle. He said that the pain should go away in about 4 weeks if i do the excercises consistently. I don't want to wait that long to run again though ugh! He said I can start running again when the pain goes away, so maybe I'll try in 3 weeks.

Re: Runners - Knee problem!

I've had issues with my knee for as long as I can remember. Last year I started working with a new trainer who worked with M.A.T (muscle activation therapy). Most of the pain that I was having in my knee came from a weak hip. We were able to strengthen my hips and gluts and I can't tell you what a difference it has made. Look into it....let me know if you have questions.

Re: Runners - Knee problem!

Re: Runners - Knee problem!

Posted by pmpkn087

Posted by jeanyus27

So I was finally able to see a doctor today and luckily its nothing serious. Basically he said that I need to strengthen my quadricep muscle. He said that the pain should go away in about 4 weeks if i do the excercises consistently. I don't want to wait that long to run again though ugh! He said I can start running again when the pain goes away, so maybe I'll try in 3 weeks.

I was going to say that at this point, it sounds like something that's just annoying. But strengthening will definately prevent any further injury. Strengthening your quads naturally (as opposed to using machines) is essential when running regularly. The best thing to do is lots of lunges, squats and deadlifts. This way you strengthen your quads and hamstrings. Also, doing hip exercises (like side lunges) are extremely beneficial.

Another thing you might want to look into is "ChiRunning" by Danny Dryer. A lot of the pain can have to do with your form. Many people use their legs too much when running, therefore promoting injury...when the strength and endurance should come from your trunk. So doing lost of core strengthening and stability exercises will help tremendously as well.

HTH

Re: Runners - Knee problem!

Is your knee not tracking properly? Did he recommend physical therapy? I hope it gets better soon!