Hi there,
I've been running (on-and-off) for about 12 years. A few years ago my running trailed off until I essentially wasn't running anymore and I've been trying to get back into it, but everytime I start up I get set back with shin splints or random knee pain. After running a couple miles yesterday, I had a sharp pain in the interior of my left knee. My right knee has had problems (old IT band issues), but I've never had any problems with the left...not quite sure what I've done to it. All I want to do is go and run through it so that I can get my runs in, but I know that will make it worse/ lead to a tear (if I haven't already done that).
So I'm back to icing...and feeling frustrated. Almost everyone in my family has had to give up running because arthritis/ bad knees runs rampant in our genetics...and I'm wondering if I'm just trying to force my body to do something it doesn't want to do. I love the "release" of running, but at this rate, I'm never going to get back to a place where I can wake up and go for a relaxing run. And I'm only 25. For those of you out there who've dealt with knee injuries...what have you found helpful? I'm thinking of switching over to a yoga/ pilates routine, incorporating cardio machines & swimming. Like most runners, I'm a bit high-strung/ "type A" and need the running to help me minimize stress so I can lead a normal life...but I'm wondering if there are other exercises that can give me that same release without the wear on my body.
If anyone has some wisdom about 1) how to come back to running without destroying your body below the thighs 2) alternative workouts/ exercises that you've found effective - I'd be most grateful.
Thanks!
