I am new to Portland Fit and new to running. I have always wanted to be a runner and thought this would be a great way to become a runner. I am definitely still a run/walker. The first two times I ran with Portland Fit (the time trial day and then two days later when I did my minutes) my left knee did not hurt. Ever since then (my next four run/walks) I feel tension in my knee and when I at done, it is sore. However, it is sore on top of the knee- to the right just slightly. It is as if I hit it on something and I have a bruise. But I have not hit it. WHen I touch it, it is sore. My questions are: 1. Is this normal? Is this my body saying it is not used to running? 2. Should I go see my doctor? I don't want to think it will go away on its own only for it to be worse down the road. Any advice is greatly appreciated! Thank you.

Sunsplash,
To be abrupt in answering your questions: 1- Yes. This is most likely a response to you doing something you have never done before. 2- Yes you should come and see the docs at the Clearwater tent so we can evaluate you for a more serious injury then the normal wear and tear process.

If you can answer me a few more questions, we should be able to find a way to help you.
What is your height, weight, age?
Any soreness or stiffness in the right knee?
Is the superior, medial bruised spot where the muscle attaches to the kneecap?
Any history of injuries (surgeries) to either knee?

I will look for your response.
Cheers,
Dr. Jake

Hi Dr. Jake,

Sorry for the delayed response.

More information:

Height: 5'6"
Weight: 180
Age: 29

The other knee is doing just fine. I have not had any previous knee injuries. In grade school I danced a lot, in high school I swam on the swim team (freestyle), and I used to ski. I stopped skiing because my knees would be sore the next day. I am not exactly sure how to answer your question about whether the sore spot is where the muscle attaches to my kneecap.... on my left knee it is on the lower right quadrant. It also sometimes makes a click when I straighten it after it has been bent for awhile. I cannot see the bruise, but it seems a little more puffy and almost feels like I have an air bubble inside (if that makes any sense).

Thank you.

Sunsplash,

It sounds like you are suffering from some pes anserine tendonitis and possibly bursitis. This tendon is where two of the hamstring tendons attach and the sartorius muscle from the front of the hip attach. Keep the ice on the swollen "airbubble" area for 15 minute increments with one hour breaks. Be sure to stretch the hamstring muscles in the back of the thigh for 45 seconds each stretch, and do this a couple times a day (before bed, after exercise, and in the morning). I am a little concerned about the clicking.

Does it sound like mulitple clicks or creaks (crepitus) or one single click at a specific point in the range of motion?
Is the click painful?
Is there pain in the knee at rest at night?
What are your foot arch types (high, med, flat)?
Do you pronate when you walk/run?
Have you been checked for a leg length difference?

I will look for your response.
Dr Jake