Just want to share this. I've been running with a bad knee for the past year. Although it has slowed me down initially, it didn't stop me from keeping my hobby alive. Doctor says I should just rest it out. I tried but I got depressed and felt even more ill than usual. I just kept going on until now.
What could possibly happen that could worsen the situation - other than quitting?
If a doctor or physio says "rest" see someone else. Obviously if you are dead or something really serious maybe think about it first, but then definitely carry on
Poacher turned game-keeper
Yup... what he said. ^
Not running messes my schedule, my mood, and my life! For two weeks I've been feeling heavy and found comfort in reading https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/ch...-help-me-cope/ and other strategies that would help me better cope with the issue.
Does anyone understand my ordeal?
When I feel bad and want a distraction, I just come on here and say something like "Hey only Inov8 wearers jump walls" or "Walshies all have beards and drink warm beer", if it gets really bad you could "Drop the shorts" as well for full thermonuclear action... as in...Originally Posted by Mustranrun
"Why can't I wear my number on my shorts" <<boom>>
OK, to take this more seriously, Mustranrun. There are two connected issues: your injury and your mental state.
Firstly, the injury. You mention a doctor; I presume that was your GP. The advice to rest is obviously sound, but if you go to a Sports Injury clinic you will get treated by a physio with specialist knowledge and a commitment to get you back running as soon as possible, which a GP is unlikely to have.
As for the mental difficulties: we all feel a bit miserable when we can't run for any extended period, and maybe you suffer this worse than most. Can you find some alternative exercise? Maybe cycling (if you spin a low gear, to avoid putting more stress on the knee), or swimming. I know from experience that nothing gets the endorphins going like running, but I have survived periods of injury when I have only been able to cycle. And have a look at the "Depression" thread on this Forum; if nothing else, it will show that you are not alone in feeling down.
In his lifetime he suffered from unreality, as do so many Englishmen.
Jorge Luis Borges
An alternative exercise method and routine will be a great idea.
I would definitely get a second opinion from a sports physio, I think the GPs are normally quite cautious whereas a physio may give you some PT or cross training get thing better quicker
Your experience resonates. I have three chronic issues with my lower back as well as an ongoing stiffness in my right knee that is perpetually uncomfortable. Day-to-day the pain is always there and it absolutely impacts upon my mindset. I agree with others in finding a good physio and would especially emphasise the point about them having running-specific knowledge.
It might sound strange but I continue to be comforted by remembering Joss Naylor's accounts of his lower back problems. If there's a runner anywhere that's been through hell and back with spine issues yet still achieved enormous successes, it's him. What he has had to live with must be draining to say the least.
Having a non-exercise focus also helps I find. I've dived deep in to the world of electronic music production and music theory as a way to keep my mind occupied. If exercise is all you have, I think that can be a dangerous place to be.
Good luck and chin up.
Just keep on running, as long as you are happy
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