Is there anything I can do for my knee? Or do i have to stop running..

I have been running for 8 weeks! I am really proud of myself. I went from running 20 minutes at 5.5 to running 30 minutes at 7.0. I run 5 days/week and started this because I found it was changing my body really fast (much more toned and weight started dropping).

However...my right knee is hurting toward the end of every run. When it gets bad i take a day off and resume the next day.

Should I try running 3x/week and doing something else the other days? Or is anyone experienced with this?? I don't want to cause bad damage. I ran cross country in HS but never injured my knee...not sure if there is anything i can buy to help?

Re: Is there anything I can do for my knee? Or do i have to stop running..

It sounds like runners knee. I would definitely do some strength training on off days, and endurance training to strengthen. I also would not run at 7.0 5x a week... 3x is better, and run at different paces - 7.0 might be too hard on your knee.

good news is it's treatable! when I had it, I laid off it for a while and did some strength training and it went away.


runners knee

Message edited 5/24/2010 4:39:19 PM.

Re: Is there anything I can do for my knee? Or do i have to stop running..

Thank you! Great info!

Yeah, i know i should prob slow the pace a bit. I was so happy because i was finally at the point where i felt GREAT during the run...aside from the one knee that is..

I will try what you wrote and see what happens. Thanks again!

Re: Is there anything I can do for my knee? Or do i have to stop running..

I know, it sucks. With running the last thing you want to do is slow down when you are getting so into it and feeling that adrenaline rush! but unfortunately running can lead to injuries. I'm getting surgery next week because of a running injury so be careful and my best advice from the drs and physical therapist is always do some strength training in addition to running - even something like pilates would do because it's good for your core. I didn't do this, and that's probably what caused my injury.

good luck and enjoy!

Re: Is there anything I can do for my knee? Or do i have to stop running..

Definitely do workouts to strengthen your quads! It will help!

Re: Is there anything I can do for my knee? Or do i have to stop running..

I had Active Release Therapy (ART) performed on both knees by a chiropractor. I have IT Band syndrome in both legs so I went for the ART to help it. It definitely improved...not perfect but much better!!