Feet on desk causing knee problems?

Question
I'm a longtime runner who---due to an extended battle with knee pain---finally threw-in the towel and crossed-over to an elliptical machine.  

Although this solved the problem for some time, I've again found myself crippled by knee pain (right knee only,) particularly while on the elliptical trainer or climbing stairs.  As the elliptical is basically zero-impact, this has me stumped.

I've seen my doctor about it on two occasions, but he could not diagnose anything obvious.  Then, a couple of days ago, a colleague entered my office and brought something to my attention.

While working, I regularly sit (often for hours on-end) reclined in my chair with my feet-up on my desk, legs crossed (left leg on top, right leg on bottom) and my laptop in my lap.  My colleague suggested that this posture is placing considerable downward pressure on my right knee and that it may well be the true source of my pain.

To be honest, I think that this theory may have merit.  What are your thoughts? Also, other than changing my posture, what would you recommend in the way of therapy---ice, elevation, rest, etc?

Thanks in advance.  

Answer
It could be one or more things: The posture with the laptop is most likely a contributor to the problem, and another may be just a lack of strength in the knee joint as well.  I would do the RICE method of rest, ice, compress, & elevation for your knee.  simply let it rest, ice it for 15-20 minutes with a simple bag of frozen peas or corn, wrap the bag onto your knee with a compression wrap (ACE bandage, as they are commonly called), and elevate it onto a pillow under your knee as you're icing it. You can do this 1-2x a day to help it heal.  

I'd also suggest trying to start a strength training program for not just the lower body, but the whole body, with a total body workout routine of 2-3 sets per movement.  Covering the movements of squatting & lunging with lower body, pushing & pulling with upper body, and bending/twisting with your core, this will target pretty much all your muscle groups & teach the body to move as one unit through various movements you take it through.  Machines are okay for starting, but in reality, they aren't a viable long-term solution.

I hope this helps you well,

Rick Karboviak
http://speeddialcoach.com