If you follow me on Instagram, you probably already know what’s going on. Near the end of my long run on Tuesday, I felt a pop behind my knee on the right side. Since I didn’t have much left of my run, (and I’m stubborn), I decided to see it through to the end. As I limped through my cool down, I knew something wasn’t quite right. After stretching and rolling out for a bit, I would still get that popping sensation whenever there was any flexion in my left leg. Would I be able to run my half marathon? Would I be able to squat ever again? I’m a huge drama queen, but my mind started going to the worst places.
The Diagnosis
After three days of RICE and no progress, I decided that I should probably get my knee checked out. After describing my symptoms, the doctor examined my knee and ordered an ultrasound; all of which led to a torn meniscus. Aside from breaking both wrists and fracturing my ulna, I’ve never done anything like this so it’s a little scary. The doctor told me that anything that could aggravate my knee is out of the question until I’m pain free; this means no half marathon.
How am I Feeling
Really bummed. I feel like the last few months have just been flushed down the drain and have been a waste of time. All the time, energy, and money I’ve spent FEELS like it was wasted. In terms of my knee, I don’t have any issues walking, but stairs kill and I can’t do anything past a leisurely stroll. My range of motion is limited, and the right side of my knee is fairly swollen. The doctor that I spoke with gave me some exercises that I’m supposed to do once or twice a day, (they take about 5-10 minutes), in addition to a referral for physio. Since I’ve never been to physio, I’m not quite sure what to expect, but I’ll be sure to blog about my experience. I’m discouraged, but it’s time to heal.
-Running Fast, Lifting Heavy
Running Fast, Lifting Heavy 
Sorry to hear about your injury. I wish you a speedy recovery!
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Thank you!
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Get well soon 😉
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Thank you!
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Heal fast!
I fail to see how keeping fit is a waste of time though. A torn meniscus is fairly common in runners, it’s just one of those things.
Good luck.
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Thank you! I agree with you though, keeping fit wasn’t a waste of time, it just feels like all the hours I spent training for the half aren’t being put to use (if that makes sense). Thanks for the well wishes!
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I really feel for you but please don’t feel like it was a waste of time – it’s all working on your fitness and strength and when you start training again, it will really help! Rest up – I’ve had physio before and it’s been brilliant – make sure you do the exercises that they tell you to do and you’ll feel better in no time 🙂
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Thanks for the reassurance! I’ve already started feeling 10x better after doing the exercises that the doctor prescribed, so I can only imagine I’ll feel even better after seeing the physiotherapist.
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Sorry to hear this. I totally feel ya. I’m not able to participate in Half-Marathon I’ve registered for in May. But the good news is because of your level of fitness you’re body will heal a little faster than someone who isn’t. It’s a total bummer..but as you said you have to let your body heal. I’ve learned through my journey to listen to my body.
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It’s not a great feeling is it? I’m already starting to feel so much better after doing the exercises that the doctor prescribed, so I think you’re right! My body just needed the right tools to start healing. Listening to your body is key!
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So sorry to hear this. Don’t let this setback get you down; it’s just a serback! I swear by PT. I needed it when I busted my IT Band, my calf twice, and my shoulder! You’ll be back; just don’t rush it!
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Thanks for the reassurance! Like I said, I’ve never been to physio but I’ve heard it’s worked wonders on some people so I’m hoping for the same results. Definitely going to take it slow once I’m cleared to run. Good luck at Mississauga! So jealous I can’t be there.
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Oh no! I’m really sorry. I hope your knee heals soon.
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Thanks!
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I’m so sorry about the injury and know how frustrating it is to work so hard training for the race but not be able to run. Take up more of the upper body training for now to keep yourself occupied and hopefully you’ll heal quickly and be back to it before you know it. This definitely hasn’t been a waste though! Hopefully you’ve seen what you’re capable of, so you know you can get back on track when your body is ready and go for it again.
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It’s rough, isn’t it? I’ve definitely been focusing on upper body as well as isolateral exercises so that I can still work my right leg (the good knee). Already shopping around for half marathons in the fall!
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I’m sorry things did not go as planned for you. I’ve been there and it sucks. Keep your head up. This too shall pass!
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Thank you!
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oh no! That really is a bummer. I hope it heals quickly. Just do what the doctor says. Let us know how it goes.
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Will do!
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That sucks large. But having had knee issues before, if you don’t take care of it or push too hard, it’ll affect the rest of your life. There are different kinds of physiotherapists but I’ve found the best luck with ones that do dry needling and myofascial release instead of “do these exercises three times a day and come see me three times a week”. But that’s just me. Listen to your body for guidance. Short term pain for long term gain (or healing).
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Thanks for the tip! I’ve never really done this before so I don’t know what to expect. But the pointers are definitely helpful. It kills me not to run, but you’re right; I need to listen to my body and I know I’m not ready yet.
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