Written By: Prerna Mittra | Published : September 11, 2024 6:09 PM IST
Medically Verified By: Dr Surbhi Bhagat, senior doctor super specialty into USG-guided interventional pain at ORTHOReNEW Regenexx India Joint, Spine, and Sports Clinic
Listen to your body. If a particular workout or long run causes increased pain, do not hesitate to modify or skip it altogether. (Photo: Freepik)
How to train for a marathon with knee pain: It is not easy for people living with knee pain and knee issues to participate in marathons, which are quite challenging even for people with healthy knees. Knee issues are one of the most common problems that are faced by runners. Dr Surbhi Bhagat, senior doctor super specialty into USG-guided interventional pain at ORTHOReNEW Regenexx India Joint, Spine, and Sports Clinic says that whether it is 'patellofemoral pain', 'iliotibial band syndrome', or any other type of knee problem, nagging aches can crash your dreams of participating in a marathon. "With the right approach, however, you can manage your knee pain and achieve your goal of crossing the finish line," she says.
According to Dr Bhagat, the first step is to get to know about the root cause of knee issues. It is important to schedule an appointment with a sports medicine physician, interventional orthopedic doctor, or physical therapist who can do an ultrasound to assess your condition and provide a diagnosis. They can then recommend a treatment plan.
"This may involve physical therapy exercises to strengthen key muscles, improve flexibility, and correct any muscle imbalances or biomechanical issues that could be contributing to knee pain. You may also need to modify your training program, reduce your mileage, or incorporate more low-impact cross-training activities," the doctor advises.
She adds that once a treatment plan is ready, it is important to be diligent about it. "Do not skip exercises or try to push through the pain during your runs. Respect your body's limitations and be willing to take rest days or reduce the intensity of your workouts when needed."
Dr Bhagat also says that one must not be 'overly cautious' to the point where they are not challenging themselves at all. It is crucial to find a balance between rest and training. "Work closely with a healthcare provider to gradually increase mileage and intensity in a way that does not aggravate your knee pain," she states.
According to the doctor, in addition to a treatment plan, one must follow these five strategies that can help manage their knee pain during marathon training:
The doctor concludes by saying that one must exercise patience and have the right approach, in order to manage knee pain for a marathon. "The key is to not let the pain derail your training completely. Stay proactive in your treatment and be willing to adjust your program as needed."
