Just hurt my knee - how long do I rest it

jenchamb1

Hi all, So I've been on mfp for just over a year and have lost 76 pounds. I started exercising consistently last June. Walking outside until it go cold, then treadmill. 3-4 miles anywhere from 13 to 16 mph. Sometimes a mile on elliptical. And every morning 15-30 minutes of walking videos that include a little aerobic movement.
So anyway, two days ago I got a pretty sharp pain in my lower knee cap while I was walking. I finished the walk no issue, just a little pain. The next day it still hurt but I did my regular routines, just less intense. Well today it really hurts. I am icing and elevating it, taking advil. How long do I wait before I try to exercise it again, or until I see a doctor? Also, I am really upset that I can't follow my normal routine. What exercises do you suggest I do in the meantime? I do not have access to a pool, so swimming is not an option. Thanks for any advice.

jenchamb1

Anyone? Really I need advice! Thanks!

froggiebecky

I'm no doctor, and this advice is worth what you're paying for it.
That being said, I've done the knee pain thing. My advice is to be nicer to it than you think you need to be.
Some questions (the doc will ask you, too):
Is the pain sharp or dull?
At the time when you hurt it, did you feel or hear a 'pop'?
Only when you're bearing weight, or does it hurt all the time?
What about when you press on it? Any tenderness anywhere? Can you point and say "it hurts right there?"
Can you bend the joint? Straighten completely?

Not sure if you have access to a gym or not, but this is a great time to work on some arm strengthening. Curls, shoulder raises, etc. If you're new to strength training, and are at home, some cans of soup or pasta sauce will do.

jaz141

I suffered a knee injury from running last summer. It was very frustrating, to say the least. I bought a knee band and wore it constantly. Basically had to stop running until it felt better (took a few weeks). In the meantime, I rode the stationary bike, because it didn't cause any pain. I also did Pilates-type exercises that didn't involve any weight on my knees.

If the pain gets worse, you should see a doc. Rest it, and listen to your body.

jenchamb1

Thanks for the responses!
So when I hurt it, no pop, but it was a sharp pain. It is pretty much a dull ache except for when I stand and the first the couple steps, I am actually limping, but can walk it off and feel fine. Not swollen at all or tender to the touch. Basically aches around the bottom of my kneecap. Not swollen at all.
Maybe I will try the knee band. Didn't know that I could use the bike, but I will do that. I am going to wait until Monday I guess and see what happens.