Good question.

I need a new knee, and have spurs on the other one.

Have you tried icing the knees before you run?

I do water aerobics.

I would rather run. Walking helps.

Good Luck

SeaRain

You didn't mention, but is your doctor a sports ortho or possibly a runner? My ortho is a runner, so he knows when i come in that not running is not an option (well, not really, but you know what i mean?) if he tells me not to run, i definitely don't because he understands.

I know what you're going through!! I was a serious runner for over 20 years...and suffered pretty bad knee pain for the last 5. Turns out I was wearing my meniscus cartilage out and ended up having most of it removed. Now I can't run. My advice....use ice -particularly after you run--it reduces the inflammation that actually causes most pain. I find that bags of frozen peas are great for icing joints--they're re-useable, they mold around your joint AND they're cheap!

I'm still able to compete in several triathlons a year (I just stop after the swimming and biking events). I agree with what you said about biking...it takes about a 20 mile bike ride to equal a good 5 or 6 mile run in terms of the quality of the workout...but I have to disagree with including swimming in that characterization. Swimming non-stop free style for 30 or 45 minutes is an incredible workout and will absolutely get you into or keep you in excellent condition.

Mainly...don't let your knee pain keep you from being active....cycling, swimming, and yes even the eliptical can all be good activities.

One of the keys when working on a gym machine is to have bursts of energy... For example, on the treadmill I do 5 minutes at 5-7% grade (I'm just walking, but you can jog if you prefer -- treadmill is easier on the knees than the pavement), then 10-15 minutes at the steepest grade, then back to 5 more minutes at 5-7%. You get a good cardio workout in only 20-25 minutes without as much stress on the body. I also know some that do one minute bursts - one minute and half speed, one minute at full speed (can't talk) and they do only 15 minutes or so. This has been a technique often used by body builders because long periods of cardio burns muscle as well.... Good luck!

.

I'm sorry that you are now having the experience that many runners face after years of running: knee pain. I think most runners get it eventually. All the suggestions here are good. If you like going outside and seeing the countryside, try road biking. I made the switch 2.5 years ago, and I love it. The best thing about it is that it can be a great group activity.

I hear that bone spurs can be quite painful..nevr experienced one. You could try using Advil/Motrin to relieve some of the inflamation and possibly adding in some extra calcium and magnesium...try to rest and use ice whenever possible. I think if you try doing these things at FIRST when it begins then you may still be able to do what you enjoy the most...running!!