Knee pain from running?

Question

I know, I know, get off the treadmill and back on the elliptical or bikes. I don't care what anybody says about cardio, old fashion running breaks me into a better sweat than anything and I can burn more calories in half the time, no matter what the counter says on the machines, I don't trust them. Anyway, I've been bothered by this for a couple years, I'm 29. I was trying to do my 3 miles this morning and felt a sharp pinch on the outside of my right knee at the soft point just outside the knee cap. Obviously, I had to stop running right away. It also hurts when I'm not running or if I bend my knee a certain way.

I know, I need to take it easy and use a different type of cardio machine, I'm just concerned there is something permanently wrong with my knee. My insurance isn't that great, so I'd rather not see a Dr. Does anybody know, exactly, what this type of pain in this spot usually is?

Answer 1

Ice your knee 10-15minutes 3X per day and take advil to take away any inflamation.  When you run, take smaller strides and this will be less of an impact on your knees.  Try running on some trails and get some fresh air.  Do knee bends - feets hip wide apart, hands on your hips, looking straight ahead, back straight, bend down with your knees and back up again.  Do this slowly 10X 3 repeats do this a few times a day, every day.

Here is some articles regarding running and knee information :

http://www.runnersworld.com/cda/toolsart...

Answer 2

do light squats and lunges to build the muscle above your knee.  this will help absorb the shock your knees endure during a run.  cushioned shoes will help too.