Dont run to the Doctor

As a coach, this is a classic question and my response. We will all have some aches and pains along the way, the question of going to a doctor or just how to deal with the set back will be a common occurrence.

"Have a question for you. The past few days I've noticed clicking in my knee - mostly when I'm going up stairs. It's not really painful, other than the aches I have all over just from this sudden running that my body isn't used to - that's to be expected. Yesterday there seemed to be some swelling behind my knee area (the point on the back of the leg where it bends) so I put ice on it for a while. Today, it doesn't hurt but its still clicking as I walk up stairs. I realize you are not a doctor, but do you think I should not run again unless I see a doctor first? I hate to miss my miles already. "

My response:
No need to run to a doctor, I'll save you a trip!

If you go to a podiatrist will tell you need a custom orthotic in your shoe to change your knees alignment. A chiropractor will have you come back every week for life to adjust the pain away. An orthopedic doc will schedule surgery to remove a bit of cartilage or meniscus. A GP or sports med doc will give you a script for PT where you will be taught some stretches and exercises, you will also be asked to come back for several weeks. All will say lay off running for a while or to back it down, not to mention all will require an x-ray, CT scan or a couple thousand dollar MRI!

OK ... you can go to a doc if things continue to get worse or the pain is not manageable. You may even need custom orthotics, some physical therapy or worse yet, surgery. The point of my doc talk is to warn you that there is no magic bullet and after the appointment you often back to square one.

What to do? Feel the pain out. Ice is the miracle drug, always ice after a run, maybe even a second time each day. Yes, you may need a few days off to calm down the pain. Change your stride, your running route, your pace, or your shoes. You may have to run every other day for a bit and build up slower than the schedule. So be it. You will learn about yourself and what you need to do stay pain free. We have lots of time! Read about your pain on-line on sites like runnersworld.com. After rest, days off, self help and patience you have a good chance of getting back on track ... If not or if things are getting worse, then it may be time for intervention.

Hang tough,

Randy Step