Running and Knee Problems

Okay, here's the deal - I'm having a knee issue. Of course this is most problematic for a runner! And quite disheartening, but I'm trying to be a good sport about it.

In my last blog I mentioned my right knee making some fuss at me after getting in a 6 miler on the 18th of March. I rested for two days and then ran 4 miles on Wednesday the 21st. My knee continued to be somewhat aggravated for whatever reason. I rested another two days and then ran a 5 miler on Saturday the 24th. My right knee is now yelling at me with enough decibels to warrant a doctor's visit. So, I made one. I'll be going this Monday and I'm guessing I'll need to have an xray or MRI done. My knee is making a popping noise and doing this "locking-up" thing. According to my symptoms, and from my home work on the web, I think I may be taking a little time off of running. But we'll see what the doctor says.

I've been doing the R.I.C.E. thing - Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation as well as taking motrin. It does seem to help.

I am supposed to run a 5K on Sunday. I signed up weeks ago, but it probably wouldn't be wise to run it. I am tempted though. It is a great course! It's flat and I got my best PR there last year, plus came home with a second place medal for my age group. It was a lot of fun and I was really looking forward to running it again. But I just don't know.

I am having to trust the Lord with perhaps another season of laying down something I truly love to do. And I know every time I've had to surrender my running shoes, it has always been a blessing in disguise. I see the Lord is continuing to redirect my focus and direction. I only wish it could have been during the cold winter months. Not being able to run in the Spring weather is indeed a big bummer, but I will try not to despair too much. One thing is certain, when I know it's time to get new running shoes, I'm not going to put it off for another 3 months! Sometimes we're really just suffering the consequences of our own foolishness. Maybe that's what's happening this time. Whatever the reason or cause for my knee issue, I will believe God can work it for good in my life by bringing deeper trust, deeper sanctification, and deeper submission to Him. And those are things I want my heart to "run" miles and miles in!