Sore Knee sux?

Question

I have been running on soft surfaces and a treadmill and I run about fifteen miles a week and my knee hurts. What can I do to let it heal that won't keep me losing my running edge?

Do you think biking would be ok? I have no access to a pool or an elliptical machine :(

Answer 1

You probably want to back off from running a little bit. You don't mention how long you've been running but if you are new, you may be doing too much -- too soon.

Here are some tips:

1) Cross train. Bike, elliptical, swim, etc.
2) Avoid hills. If you've been turning the treadmill's incline level up, you could be stressing the knee.
3) Wear an ace brand knee wrap. They are neoprene and have the hole in it for your knee cap. They are $15 or so at your local drug store. I wear them all the time and they really help keep the joint stable / warm.
4) Check your shoes for unusual wear. If they are worn, replace them.
5) Check your stride. Are you over striding?
6) Don't run on banked surfaces.
7) The Glucocasime / Chondritin might help, but it takes about 2 - 3 months before you notice a difference. I am not sure if it will help "runners knee" which is likely what you have.

Chances are, you just need some down time. Cross train a bit more than usual and come back and hit the treadmill / running trail and see where you stand there.

You may want to see a doctor / sports medicine specialist to see what he recommends or do some search on the internet for "knee pain runner" and see if you can self-diagnose your problem.

Answer 2

Take Glucosomine/Chondroiten it really helps weight baring joints. However, I would be careful stressing the joint. Depends on why your knee hurts. If you have damage then running on it will increase the damage.You need to have it checked out as to why your hurting.

Answer 3

"run" on an elleptical or run in water (waist deep or so). either of these options are even lower impact than running on a treadmill and will help give your knee time to heal while still allowing you to stay in shape.