Running pains

Question
John,

I just took up running again, I was never a distance runner - two miles at most even as an in shape teen.  Now 28, 5'1 11", about 235 lbs, trying to get to 170-180.   I have been doing to jog/walk/jog method to get back to it.   After 2 weeks of running 3-4 nights a week I have had pain/stiffness on the insides of both knees.  On top of that I am getting severe stiffness/bulge in calves and in the soleus.   This didn't happen the first 2 weeks, only a recent thing.  

I am taking Ibuprofen for the knee pains which seems to help.  As far as the muscle bulging/stiffness/cramps, is it dehydration?  Is it them getting back into shape?  Why is it happening after 2 weeks?

Thanks,

Dave

Answer
Hi Dave
First don't take any meds they just mask your problem your trying to fix and it is your bodies way of talking to you to give it a slight break with recovery.Overall what your experiencing is quite normal for some one making a come back especially with all that extra weight.I would supplement with some stationary bike for tracking and alignment of your knees and to strengthen quads which support proper tracking.Two things that will help with recovery day to day is 500mg vit C with your 3 meals a day and a couple of epson salt baths a week for 20 to 25 minutes just 30 minutes before bed time to max out recovery.For what it is worth i started just like you years ago.Be patient Dave it is not a sprint.This is just what happens,but if you are consistent and give your body plenty of recovery and get your diet right you will win this war.Any other questions just in touch.

All the best

John