Distance runners.

Lea LaJeunesse-Askren

I finally have reached my 6 mile mark - WOOHOO!!! But after about 4-5 miles my knee starts killing me. Should I be wrapping it before I run? Should I go to the Dr. for a brace?

MrsStubbs

My first thought is shoes. When my shoes were wore out, my knees would start to hurt if I ran any further than 4miles. With my new ones, no problems.

Lea LaJeunesse-Askren

I thought the shoes also but I was fitted for running shoes less than 2 months ago and haven't had a problem. I think I need to take a little break from the distance running for a week and see if it feels better.

Kapalua

I don't know the answer to your question...but just wanted to say good job!!

Temp108743750006959

There is an article in Runners magazine this month about injury-free running -- a lot to do with running form. Very helpful article.

juniper19

You probably realize this, but you should also stop as soon as you reach the "killing me" point.

Lea LaJeunesse-Askren

I stop

JenninMA

Sounds like it could be illiotibial band syndrome, and if that's the case there are a number of good stretches that should help with the problem. Do you usually stretch after running? Google ITB syndrome and you should find some good info on stretches.

savvymom

I agree w/ PP about the stretches. Also try taking some tylenol before your run. It's amazing the difference I feel when I take tylenol before.

Lisa102304

Might be that your muscles are not quite ready for the distance too. If the quads are not strong, they might be causing stress on the knee. Focus on building up quad strength (and hamstrings too!) by doing lunges, squats.

 

Also, stride length can be an issue too. Treadmills are tough on the stride - it is hard to adjust when you are forced into a fixed speed. If you are overstriding, the knee may suffer.

 

Might be ITBS, that is often the cause for "knee problems". Really work on stretching, buy a foam roller - those ROCK. Seriously.

 

Another thing, you might be doing too much. Don't do longer runs many times a week. I would do one long run weekly, and then shorter runs through the rest of the week - focusing on other aspects of running - sprints, hills, etc.

I would not get in the habit of taking Tylenol pre-run. That can often mask a potential problem. If your body hurts, there is usually a reason. If you mask the problem while running, you can run yourself into a more serious injury. It is one thing to take Tylenol once a week before your one long run, quite another thing to take it daily. Tylenol is STILL a drug - even if it is OTC.