My husband just started jogging...

Question
He is 27, 5'11 and around 300 pounds. He has a job that keeps him on his feet for the entire shift but is not very strenuous. He has taken up jogging to try and lose weight. He just bought some new pairs of running shoes and he is going just about every day, for about 3 or 4 miles on the street. But then his knees really start hurting him and he takes OTC pain meds almost every day and takes a break from jogging until his knee feels better. Is this normal? Will it get better if he just pushes through it? Would running on a cushier track or getting different shoes help? I am very concerned that he may permanently jack up his knee. Before he started this routine he was going to the gym occasionally but not as often as he jogs now. I'd like to see him keep this up but I don't want him getting hurt. Thanks.

Answer
Sabrina,

It is good that he is focusing on his health. At his current weight he will be on a track to health problems. Unfortunately with his current weight, it is likely he will experience some pain from the stress of running. It will subside after the body adapts to the stress.He should try jogging a few miles a day...maybe run at a park on grass, or limestone path, evn on the road. He also should watch his diet, cut out sugars...mainly soft drinks and sweets. He could ice his knees and take ibuprofen after running to help reduce swelling. I think if he does this he will be ok.

Ryan