bruised feeling in knee after running

Question
Hi John
I am a very new jogger and started about 3 weeks ago. In the past 2 days I have experienced a pain and bruised feeling in my knee, just to the right of my kneecap. I can actually pinpoint the area that hurt and it seems to be about a 2X2 area. I feels like I bumped into a corner of a table and bruised it. Like I said, I am very new to jogging and I am also overweight, which I figure has something to do with the pain as well. Over the past 3 weeks I have been walking/jogging everyday and just yesterday jogged 2 miles. After my workout the pain in my knee was bad enough that I decided to ice it. It was very sore throughout the evening, but it's much better this morning (just a little bit of dull pain)It looks like I may be experiencing "runners knee" and should work on strengthening my quads. Can I still jog while doing that? Is it something I should really be concerned about? I appreciate any feedback you have. I have really enjoyed jogging and I would hate to have to give it up! thanks!

Answer
Hi Jen
You should always be concerned with discomfort.Things don't go away by them self.Always address the situation.When you start a new activity like running it takes time for the muscular skeleton system to adapt to the stress of the process and from time to time you will experience situations that you have to take care of before they get worst.I think what your experiencing is some tracking and alignment problems which is quite normal and can be corrected over time.What i recommend is start adding up right stationary bike workouts with a med tension increasing it as you get stronger at 65 to 85 rpm. a few times a week.This will really make a difference.It is possible you have a slight case of chondromalacia which the bike workouts will address along the way.Just don't be in a hurry and have patience.The bike will also take care of your quads.I would start the bike right away for a week and a half before you start to run and then you will see how it goes and can make a decision if it is working for you.I would also continue to add the bike for insurance down the road.Any questions just get in touch Jen.

All the best

John