Knee injuries but want to run

I have bad knees too and I am also only 24! lol I used to be a very competitive runner (how I got the injuries). My best advice is take it verrry slowly with lots of strength training (for the leg muscles) and cross training. I haven't quite gotten back to running after my latest injury but I really hope to soon!

I had knee problems for 2 years and had to quit running. I just worked out in a gym instead and resorted to ellipticals and bikes for a while.

Somehow, my knees got better after a few years. It could have been a gluten problem because I had gone low carb when they mysteriously got better, it could have been something else. I don't know because I couldn't afford to see a doctor about it.

I will say for some runners, I found doing styrofoam exercises for the ITB (illiotibial band, excuse my spelling if it's incorrect) to be helpful before runs.

i've had countless surgery on my knees since i was 18, i'm now 23 and still having surgery. i've been told to avoid running altogether as it is the worst possible exercise for them! however if you really want to get into it i'd suggest a treadmill as it's indoors and its a steady even surface so you're less likely to injure yourself. ideally swimming, cycling and speed walking are the best for dodgy knees (i'm afraid).

I've had 5 knee surgeries so far--the first one when I was 24, the last about 15 months ago (I'm 44)--and I expect that I will be having a couple more before the eventual knee replacement.
I used to do triathalons, I used to ski (which was how I hurt myself), I used to be thin.
After I had the 1st knee surgery, I never really gave myself the time to heal. I hurt, but I just pushed through.
That was the worst thing I could have done and I'm paying for it now.
So my first piece of advice (for whatever it's worth) is to let yourself recover slowly and fully before you try to overdo it.
Next, do things that give you great exercise but are easier on your knee--elliptical, biking (relatively flat surfaces), Pilates, walking, water stuff (which some people love), and that sort of thing.
Most things that involve your knee can be modified--right now I'm doing the Jillian Michael's Ripped in 30 DVD--tons of jumping--but I replace it with other things and still get a KILLER workout!
If your goal is to be able to run around with your son, then you probably don't want to blow out your knees completely by running (which is one of the hardest things you can do to them).
In the meanwhile, absolutely do strength training--the stronger your quad, hamstrings and butt muscles are, the more supported your knees will be.
Lastly, depending upon what the problems are, ask your Dr about Supartz or something similar. It's a series of injections (that DON'T hurt) that lubricates the joints, reduces the inflamation from the arthritis and provides cushioning like the cartiledge would.
Good luck and don't give up!!!

Take it slow and talk to your doc
I have been dealing with a meniscus tear

Feels better with a supplement - super cissus (usplabs)..
Good luck!

I have a ton of knee problems too......arthritis and a cracked kneecap at 27. I had a relatively minor knee surgery just about 2 months ago, and my doc won't even let me elliptical. He told me the best cardio I can do with the knee condition I have is walking on an incline on the treadmill, and swimming/pool running. I haven't tried the pool stuff yet, but it is supposed to be a really good way to improve cardio without messing up your knees further. I know they sell those pool weights and stuff at Sports Authority; that might be a good way to go.