I hurt my knee during cross country practice?

Question

I have been running cross country for five years now and i have never injured myself before, but this last Friday i really messed up my knee. I don't exactly know what i did though. i think i might have landed in it funny, but now i cant even walk right. I need to get back to training but i don't know how to treat my knee. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

If you twisted it at all you need to see a doctor or training to assess the seriousness of the injury. They can help you rehab it (which might not take very long at all) and give you advice on avoiding a repeat. In the meantime, icing, a simple sleeve (basic brace) for your knee, some stretching, and strengthening of your legs would probably be helpful. And don't push yourself too much, you don't want to mess up your knees.

Healing time will vary It took me months but I had twisted my knee 90 degrees and dislocated the kneecap (it remained dislocated for over 5 hours). My sister's took a couple of months (after a minor dislocation). So, since I assume you neither tore nor dislocated anything, I would say a week or two for a minor injury and up to a month or two if you sprained it. But you won't be completely unable to train during that time, you'll just need to be careful and take it easy (again this does vary).

Answer 2

You should really go to a doctor.  but for now, try to put it in a wrap or brace, keep it elevated, and put some ice on it every so often.  Take Care!