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Home » IDEA Answers » Can people with knee issues ever be runners?
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Question asked by Shelly Hernandez 350 days ago

Can people with knee issues ever be runners?

Runningknee injury

So many people I know have knee issues. Is running out of the question for these people? Can running be done in moderation and with certain modifications and/or limitations?

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Answers (11)

Answered by Wendy Stewart 350 days ago
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Generally speaking, a knee issue doesn't have to keep you from running. It depends on the injury.

I have a hyperextension injury from 1998. I ran for 5 years before that and I still run to this day. In fact, due to the nature of the injury, I don't run with a brace on my knee.

In order to figure out if running is still an option, see a doctor and consider the type of terrain you'll be running on. When you factor in those things, it will be easier to determine if running is an option and if you may need to wear a brace while running.

As for modifications, you can always stop running and walk at any time. I use a run/walk combination during most of my longer runs anyway. Also, be sure to do strength training on the knees so that they are stronger and able to take the new exercise.
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Answered by Leigh Cordell 349 days ago
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Absolutely. However, as others have stated, it is going to depend on the knee issue. In 1998, I tore cartilage in my right knee. I had surgery to repair the damage and became a runner AFTER healing. I've since run four marathons and many half marathons. I do have to balance my workouts with cross training (often spinning) and strength training, but rarely does running create any problems for me.

I would recommend being properly fitted for running shoes. There is renewed interest in barefoot running, but not everyone is built for it. Shoes can make a great difference in how the knee takes the impact of running. Also, taking it a little bit at a time and not going gung-ho is going to give the body an opportunity to adjust to the change.
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Answered by Norman Encarnacion 350 days ago
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Sometimes it's good to think of what people can do... If amputees can... Anyway, always consult with a health professional before beginning any exercise program, especially, if there are red flags to begin with.
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Answered by Joanne Duncan-Carnesciali 349 days ago
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Have you ever tried Kangoo Jumps. If not I encourage you to visit www.kangoojumps.com. If you have any questions about the product please feel free to reach me at 212 541-3701. They are the only way that I run.

All the best!
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Answered by Kasha Williamson 349 days ago
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As Wendy indicated, it greatly depends on the type of knee issue/s the individual has and, of course, any activity should be reviewed with their physician first. With that said, for the clients that I work with who really want to run, I begin them with a LOT of weight training first - for at least 4-6 weeks, to ensure that the surrounding muscles are strong enough and can provide a base for the knee motility.
I make them cardiovascularly stronger with base adn interval work on the elliptical, bike, rowing machines, swimming - again for 4-6 weeks.
after all that, I may let them try a short 1/2 mile - 1 mile run on a treadmill with 1% incline. and see how it goes from there.
Good luck!
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Answered by LaRue Cook 328 days ago
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Hmmm, my short answer is that it depends on the nature and extent of the knee issues. First things first is I would have a client presenting with knee "issues" see her physician for an evaluation. Knees, and the problems/issues associated with them are so complex that the answer to this question is a categorical MAYBE!

LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
lecfitness@yahoo.com
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Answered by Karin Singleton 325 days ago
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I often notice with runners that they are absolutely adamant about running to the point of making existing injuries worse. I understand the desire of wanting to continue with a certain type of sport but there comes a point in time when maybe a shift is in order.

If the running protocol has to be modified to the point that it no longer provides adequate cardiovascular stimulation (or may no longer be emotionally satisfactory), there are other options. If the person enjoys outdoor exercise, there is speed-walking. I remember being very humbled by a speed-walker just passing me as I ran.

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Answered by LaRue Cook 324 days ago
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Hi Shelly! Since your question is about "general" knee problems and asks whether such a person can EVER run again, I'd have to answer YES. What will determine whether they can actually safely run again will be such factors as the nature of the injury, whether it's a chronic or an acute problem etc. First and foremost would be the consultation and advice of the client's physician.

In my opinion, you can't really definitively answer yes or no to your question unless we know the specific "knee issue" involved because there are so many grades of knee problems and so many ways that this delicate joint can be injured.

Sorry that I couldn't be more definitive, but I hope this still helps.

LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
lecfitness@yahoo.com
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Answered by Stephen Landrum 319 days ago
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I have knee issues and I run.
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Answered by Marlan Eller 266 days ago
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People come back from all sorts of injuries and health-related issues. With the proper allied healthcare team and proper treatment and maintenance, I see no reason that someone with knee issues could never run again if his or her heart is really in it.

Never underestimate the impossible!
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Answered by Heike Yates 21 days ago
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I have been running Marathons since 2007 and have come across many running buddies that have knee issues for various reasons. I am working with the local running community teaching them how to recover after runs and maximize training without injury.
One can run with knee issues it just depends.

Shelly there are so many variables.

Heike Yates
www.heylifetraining.com
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